GMM Law Enforcement runs a clean-up drive in Secunda and Evander

A major clean-up operation was once again conducted by Govan Mbeki law enforcement officials and the waste management team in Secunda and Evander.

The teams were led by GMM’s law enforcement inspector Leonard Tefu.

The GMM team embarked on a joint operation with HashTag Security in Evander on September 19 in an effort to clear the CBD of suspected drug addicts.

The team then proceeded to clean up at the stadium.

In April this year GMM embarked on a clean-up campaign in Secunda (see Ridge Times April 18) and once again returned to some of the same spots to find that vagrants and the destitute have taken over.

“Our aim is to keep the areas a safe and secure space for both residents and visitors,” said Donald Green, media spokesperson for GMM.

He said that this is an ongoing operation and will also be extended to other areas across the municipality.

“The municipality urges the community to join hands in the fight against criminality and to discourage the street dwellers from loitering near businesses and vehicles,” said Green.

Although the clean-up was welcomed by many local residents and businesses, some residents had the following to say in the comment section of GMM’s Facebook page: “You are removing drug addicts instead of removing drug dealers. Five steps forward, 10 steps back.” – Tee Goodman.

“You guys are not dealing with the cause. It will happen again.” – Brian Mdeliswa.

“Please also provide shelter for them instead of just chasing them away every time. If they don’t have a shelter they will always come back.” – Don Makadollar.

“It’s long overdue.” – Skhumbuzo Thahla Nyawuza.

“Doing a job you get paid to do should not be worthy of praise.” – Christo Mulder.

“Can’t they come to Trichardt and clean there, especially in the street of Shell garage going to A&E?” – Werner Melinda.