Gotcha! SAPS caught parked illegally
A Durban North resident caught Greenwod Park police parking illegally on the infamous Adelaide Tambo Drive.
ILLEGAL parking in the Durban North area has been a constant cause of frustration for local residents. Last year, Alan Jarvis, who has been living in the area for more than 20 years, identified Adelaide Tambo (Kensington) Drive and Mackeurtan Avenue as particularly problematic roads.
On Adelaide Tambo Drive, motorists are prohibited from parking and stopping on the road by an unmistakable red line; however, residents have for years been ignoring the rule – dangerously obstructing the view of motorists exiting the legal parking areas, he said.
However, last week Grant Westbrook, who lives on Adelaide Tambo Drive, highlighted the severity of the problem when he provided proof of police parking illegally. Westbrook’s pictures showed that the offending driver came from Greenwood Park Police station and had parked the police van on the solid red line of the notorious stretch of road.
Motorists exiting the parking area had been forced to protrude into the roadway to get a clear view of oncoming traffic. This puts them in danger and restricts the flow of traffic.
“I have witnessed the transgression from members of the public almost on a daily basis, but when we see actual police personnel parking police vehicles on this red line, or ‘No parking’ zone, to do their shopping, it gives a clear indication that this problem will never be resolved,” added an exacerbated Westbrook.
What’s more, the resident said he feared that the illegal parking could soon lead to a serious accident or the death of a pedestrian or motorist.
“There have been a few accidents, small fender benders, but this has not discouraged the activity. In the meantime, law-abiding residents will continue risking their safety when trying to avoid the numerous hazards because of all the bone-idle drivers who park with absolute disregard. Unless the police lead by example and begin enforcing the by-laws, nothing will be done until someone is seriously injured or killed,” he said.
W/O Leon Audh of the Greenwood Park SAPS said they were opposed to illegal parking by officials. “We are currently engaging all members of the station regarding the consequences of such actions, which are unacceptable unless in the event of emergencies,” he said.
Earlier this year, allegations of bribery and harassment involving Greenwood Park SAPS members also surfaced.
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