Illegally dumped trailer declared a security risk
Devon Steenkamp said that resident's vigilance is invaluable in maintaining the safety and order of our community they encourage anyone who notices suspicious activity to report it to the authorities immediately
Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp said the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) would take the necessary steps to find the owner of an abandoned container at the corner of President Fouche and Ysterhout Drive.
The container was dumped on October 8 and has become a home to waste pickers.
Steenkamp said such actions not only contravened traffic act laws, specifically regarding the abandonment of property for more than seven days but also created unsightly and unsafe conditions for the community.
“The JMPD has been alerted and is actively investigating to identify and hold the responsible party accountable,” he said.
“The presence of this container is not only an eyesore but poses a significant safety risk. It is disheartening to witness that, instead of being used productively, it is being dismantled by local vagrants. This points to a broader issue of waste management and community safety that needs to be addressed.”
He added the community needed to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. “Active citizenry plays a crucial role in maintaining public order and safety. During our site visit, the gradual stripping of the container was evident, which underscores the urgency of addressing this matter.”
Steenkamp said there were constructive solutions that could have been considered by the owner of the container. For instance, there was a growing trend of converting containers into homes or construction site offices.
“Numerous companies and NGOs would potentially accept such a donation for conversion, repurposing it into a valuable community asset. This is not only a sustainable choice but also one that can contribute positively to society.
“In this regard, we encourage property owners to explore such alternatives before resorting to illegal dumping. It is through responsible actions and community engagement that we can ensure a cleaner, safer, and more aesthetic environment for all.”
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla confirmed that the matter had been brought to their attention and officers were sent to the location.
“They found the container dumped there and they also found a vagrant who informed them that the container allegedly belonged to an Indian gentleman. Our regional office is in the process of locating the owner for its removal.”
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