Criminals target popular metal fencing
Whether sold for scrap or as second-hand panels, modern metal fences are not immune from criminals.
Popular galvanised steel fences that can be seen through are a popular choice for both those trying to keep criminals out and for criminals too it seems.
Neilen Nunes who lives on 5th Avenue in Westdene was dismayed to discover that 13 panels of fencing securing Tighy Park had been stolen.
“A couple of residents have been upkeeping Tighy Parks following the upgrade several years ago. We lock and unlock daily, clean up and de-weed the Dover side regularly and are committed to this. This latest attack is just heartbreaking.”
Joggie Viljoen, a Fairland resident, was also shocked to discover that this style of fencing had been stolen during his morning run along the Weltevreden side of the N1 pedestrian bridge. “I have so many questions but it seems criminals are resourceful.”
He said when researching additional security at his house he noticed a thriving market for second-hand sections of fencing.
Spokesperson for Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), Jenny Moodley said, “In 2017, the city commissioned the installation of a fence at Tighy Park. This was aimed at bolstering the park’s security and surveillance capabilities and was aligned with the city’s initiative to curb by-law transgressions. It’s crucial to highlight that the efficacy of a fenced facility is notably heightened when complemented by visible security patrols.”
City Parks’s findings indicate that while this style of fencing remains susceptible to vandalism and theft, ‘it proves more resilient than palisade fencing, which has become obsolete in open spaces due to its scrap metal value’.
She says the combined efforts of park rangers and metro police have helped mitigate criminal activities and contraventions within the park.
“However, it is the steadfast support from community-led monitoring initiatives that stands as a formidable deterrent against park-related crimes.”
In response to this incident, City Parks facilities management department has conducted a site visit and initiated the insurance claim process to replace the missing fence panels.
Residents who have any information about the theft are urged to report this to metro police on 011 375 5911 or email Sizwe Mabuza on smabuza@jhbcityparks.com.
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