EMPD admits to removing R59 recyclers’ material
The EMPD responded regarding the removal of the recyclable goods of the R59 recyclers.
On October 5, EMPD visited the site and removed the goods the group of men gathered, which according to the recyclers was valued from R4 000 to R6 000.
The occupants told the RECORD that EMPD used TLB machinery and a truck to get rid of their material which they had gathered for months.
The distressed group said this will have a crippling effect on their families’ welfare.
Kobeli Mokheseng, EMPD acting chief superintendent, assured the RECORD notices were served to the group years ago.
“According to the EMPD Alberton precinct commander, notices were served and several raids conducted from 2016 with different stakeholders. Previous and current ward councillors formed part of operations. On numerous occasions illegal occupants were made aware by officials they are unlawfully occupying that land parcel,” he said.
He also said recyclers’ materials found on site were transported to the nearest dumping site and a container found on that spot was also impounded.
Jenny Swart, Mayberry Park resident, said she was concerned by the group’s living conditions, although appreciated there were recyclers keeping the community clean.
“I like the fact that we have recyclers. In my household glass, plastic, tin and paper are stored separately and placed on top of the garbage to make it easier for them. Is it not possible for the municipality to render assistance in some way by eliminating these unwanted camps that are popping up,” asked Swart.
Ward 94 councillor Marina van Wyk confirmed she was aware of the group of recyclers as she once visited the site with the EMPD with different stakeholders.
“I can confirm that I visited the site in response to numerous complaints lodged by surrounding residents. They complained about an apparent increase in break-ins, rats and smells of rotting food stuff and burning of plastic. A clean-up operation was planned and executed as per the response from EMPD,” said van Wyk.
She said the group of recyclers then returned after a few days and the operation is now bigger than before.
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