A DESERTED New Germany house has again come under the spotlight as neighbours say they fear for their safety.
The Highway Mail wrote about this house in Oberreuter Road last year in April when CPF member, Matthews Buthelezi was concerned that the house, which has been deserted for many years, had become a haven for criminals.
Another concerned resident who recently moved in the area, Buhle Mbatha, said she has tried for months to get the owner to take responsibility and clear the overgrown grass around the premises.
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When the Highway Mail went to inspect the property again, the bush was not as dense as the last time and people could gain entry to the premises. Last year, even the patrollers struggled to gain access due to the dense bush that was surrounding it.
“You can see this is a decent house. It has been stripped but the structure is still standing,” said Mbatha.
She said at night she hears some movement and is worried about their safety.
“I have tried upgrading my security, I am scared as I stay next to this house and my children cannot even play outside. The young mother said there are people who are interested in buying or renting the house.
“I love this neighbourhood, our street is very quite and peaceful but this house is not just a haven for criminals but also an eyesore and a health hazard.
eThekwini Municipality’s spokesman, Msawakhe Mayisela, said: “The City receives complaints and is aware of numerous cases of abandoned and derelict houses and buildings across the City.
“The issue of run down and abandoned buildings is a city-wide problem. However, in most cases we have found that these buildings are privately owned. In such cases the onus lies with the property owner to protect his/her private property or surrender it to council should they find it difficult to maintain and/or protect.”
“Legally, therefore, the municipality does not have the power to act in the absence of an official letter from the property owner, preferably endorsed by a court of law asking for the City to intervene.
“To combat the scourge, the municipality makes every attempt to track down the property owner. Some owners abandon their buildings and emigrate. We also have cases of deceased estates.
Residents can also report any illegal activity to the South African Police Service and Metro Police.The 24-hour call centre number is 031 361 0000. Report criminal activities to SAPS on 10111.
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