Green, wide open spaces play a vital part not only in our mental health but the natural ecology of our suburbs. Sadly, these green belts have been hijacked as hideouts and thoroughfares for criminal elements.
In the rolling hills of Discovery is a small cul-de-sac that has become a constant target of thieves and other shady characters. Maud Summer Close borders the Vogelstruisfontein Park that forms part of a green belt that runs from beyond Kilburn Street, down past Fifth Ave to the vicinity of Hamberg Dam.
For several years, residents have been reaching out to authorities in a desperate plea to have their concerns addressed. Post hard lockdown there have been four confirmed house robberies and numerous near-misses among a stream of incidents dating back to 2015 at the very latest. “We feel our cries are not being heard,” said resident Heather Bergsteedt, who also described the responses to their calls for help as ‘nonchalant’.
One circumstance that places the residents of Maud Summer Close in the cross hairs of criminals is the storm water drain that runs from the veld adjacent their homes, under the railway line and into the field that surrounds the Hamberg Dam. This gives thieves a convenient escape route and a significant advantage when fleeing security companies and police.
Fellow Discovery resident and councillor for Ward 84, Gert Niemand, explained his tight bind from a conservation viewpoint. “The vlei is part of the bigger green belt conservation area within the ward. The channel does not just feed storm water, but also runs throughout the year as it is a natural spring that flows down to the dam,” he said.
Maud Summer Close residents have also done their utmost to have the bushes along the stream cut as any overgrowth gives additional coverage for criminals. “City Parks regularly maintains the park. The grass is cut and rubbish is removed from the baskets,” responded Gert. “To expect it to all be cut down will cause an imbalance to the system,” he added.
Gert does concede that there is a dire crime problem, but questions the effectiveness of those entrusted to uphold the law. “What is the Minister of Safety and Security doing to protect all citizens, and what are the local police station doing? To cut everything down or to fence it off serves no purpose as crime will still be around due to a dysfunctional police service,” he retorted.
Roodepoort Police spokesperson, Captain Juanita Yorke, confirmed that the police would be vigilant in their efforts. “All these cases have been reported. Crime Intelligence and Vispol have been notified and the area will be designated as a hot spot,” she claimed. Private security also patrol the area with regularity, but criminals are masters of opportunity and stealth.
Heather and her neighbours feel like they have been hung out to dry. Like those around her, Heather and her family have spent thousands on CCTV equipment and additional security in an attempt to prevent becoming another victim. “What is it going to take for them to do something?” she asked. “Will they wake up when someone dies?”
