Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe and the CEO of Ria Sebetsa Security Services Danny Maduray, are urging residents to avoid taking shortcuts through the veld near Halfway House Primary School due to safety concerns.
The importance of this warning has become increasingly evident following a recent incident that occurred in this location on August 9, when the security company apprehended a suspect allegedly involved in a robbery.
Read more: Halfway House Development Forum takes it to the streets
Maduray said the robbery occurred early in the morning at about 5:30am.
“In the early hours of the morning, we received crucial intelligence indicating that one of our staff members was being confronted and robbed while they were on their way to work in the veld area adjacent to Halfway House Primary School,” Maduray elaborated.
Also read: Midrand police and local private security arrests two for Halfway House car break-in
He said their armed response team acted promptly and decisively, leading to the apprehension of the suspect at the intersection of Van Heerden and Dornel routes. Several stolen items were recovered and returned to their rightful owner.
“These suspects appear to be operating as part of a gang and they are armed and highly dangerous. We have received numerous reports from community members detailing their experiences of being robbed in this specific area.”
He added many domestic workers and gardeners who work in the vicinity are becoming targets of similar crimes occurring in this veld.“It is crucial that you avoid walking or running alone when it is dark outside. Whenever possible, try to walk in groups for added safety, and please do not hesitate to inform us immediately of any unusual activities or suspicious behaviour that you may observe.”
Ward 132 councillor Annette Deppe provided additional context about the area surrounding the veld, noting that it was owned by three property owners.
She said the City of Joburg was responsible for cutting the grass but individuals in the surrounding area also take it upon themselves to clear the veld every three to four months, which may not be sufficient to ensure safety. She suggested efforts should be made to locate the property owners and urge them to fence the property.
Midrand Reporter contacted the district police spokesperson Captain Jeff Phora to confirm the suspect’s arrest, inquire about his court appearance, and discuss measures to address these criminal activities.
However, the paper did not receive a response from Phora before going to print.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Hub of activity for elections underway at Halfway House and Kyalami
-
-
-
-
