City of Johannesburg has appealed to community members to report theft and vandalism as it happens to the nearest police station, City office or the ward councillor.
This follows a visit by MMC for Community Development, Councillor Margret Arnolds to the Ruimsig Athletics Stadium which has been plagued by vandalism and theft.
Residents of Ward 97, including the councillor, Leah Knott recently complained about the ongoing theft of palisade fencing securing the stadium.
The City’s Group Communication and Marketing manager, Dudu Lushaba referred to the complaint, saying that Arnolds was aware of the missing palisades and had visited the recreational facility on Tuesday, 23 March.
“The City has embarked on campaigns to remind people to protect government assets, counter theft and vandalism. Reinforcing this campaign is necessary and calls on social contracts with communities,” she said.
When asked about security measures, Lushaba responded, “There are two security guards at the stadium to safeguard vulnerable assets. Deploying them at each and every corner is not feasible. Hence, increasing random rounds to inspect is necessary, and is being communicated.”
She added that the theft of the palisade fence was reported to the police and a case was opened. The insurance claim process is duly unfolding.
“However, vandalism and theft are escalating, causing money loss to the City. Continuous theft and vandalism of council property are regrettable. It poses challenges to users of the stadium, and negatively affects how the City intends to portray itself and allocate budget,” Lushaba criticised.
