AfriForum Roodepoort conducted a cleanup operation in Maud Sumner Close in Discovery on July 6 after a spate of burglaries in the area of late.
The operation, conducted to help address the crime situation on this quiet street, was supported by the Florida South Residents Association and private security companies.
According to AfriForum Roodepoort chairperson Werner Brits, he had been contacted by residents of the street, pleading for help as four houses in the street were burgled in recent weeks.
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The open area that stretches along one side of the street was largely overgrown, providing easy escape and hiding space for would-be criminals into the veld where finding them would be near impossible.
“I was invited to a meeting by residents who were understandably terrified that a more serious and dangerous incident could occur at any time, and to any one of them,” says Brits.
“We surveyed the area and the open veld was identified as the most obvious threat to the safety of this small and close-knit neighbourhood.”
Brits add that he put together a team comprising volunteers from AfrifForum Roodepoort, Florida South Residents Association, private security, residents, and a few hired helpers and descended on the veld on Saturday morning armed with brush cutters, saws, pangas, and other tools.
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“We cut back the overgrowth surrounding the stormwater system that runs through the veld, improving visibility and eliminating possible hiding spots.
“We also cut back some trees and bushes on sidewalks that we viewed as visual obstructions.
“The operation was a resounding success, and no incidents of crime have been reported in the street since,” he concludes.
