Neglected plot draws bad elements

WITNESSING people injecting themselves with drugs at a neglected plot at the corner of Regal and Regent Streets has disturbed a resident who has appealed for the owner to take responsibility.

A concerned resident, Jules Viljoen who lives in a building opposite the plot said what worries him the most is that there are school children who walk past that plot to and from school.

“I fear for those children. There are adults who also walk past the plot and if they do rob any of them, we won’t even be able to assist as by the time we get to the road, they will be long gone.”

Viljoen who has been residing in that area for a number of years said crime is increasing as there was a hijacking recently.

“I appeal to the owners to do something about the plot before something bad happens. They can sell it to someone who will put it into good use or fence it so that it does not end up as a spot for criminals,” he pleaded.

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eThekwini acting head of communications, Mandla Nsele said the respective property is a private property, therefore the onus lies with the property owner to protect their property or surrender it to council should they find it difficult to maintain and/or protect.

“The municipality therefore, does not have the power to act in the absence of an official letter, preferably endorsed by the court of law asking for the City to intervene.”

He said the complaints generally reported to the Municipality by members of the public with regards to abandoned properties are dirty conditions, overgrown yard, rodents, building in state of disrepair, theft of water and electricity, offensive smell due to urine and human waste deposit, crime in the neighbourhood, sale of alcohol and drugs, unsightly building, and public disturbance.

The municipality appeals to property owners to ensure that their properties are well maintained as they impact negatively on the surrounding neighbourhood. Residents can also report any illegal activity to the South African Police Service and Metro Police.

The 24-hour call centre number that they can contact is 031 361 0000 (Emergency Services, Metro Police, Fire and Disaster Management).

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