Residents of Jacaranda Avenue have taken the safety and security of their suburb into their own hands by trimming an overgrown area on 3 October.
According to the residents, the area is allegedly a notorious hideout and escape route for criminals, with several criminal incidents reported in the immediate vicinity in the past few months.
“Most recently, our neighbour’s house was burgled and we are sick of it. If anyone’s house gets burgled or robbed, this area is perfect for criminals to either escape or hide out until the coast is clear. We thought let’s be proactive as residents and sort this threat out, and our sense of community spirit has brought us together in caring for one another’s safety,” said concerned resident Linda Murphy.
Jacaranda Street resident Bongani Moyo shared his recent experience of crime and the importance of clearing the area. “I was recently burgled, and they stole various electronic items. The burglars even had the audacity to share a bottle of my whiskey before they made a comfortable escape into the overgrown area. This happened on a Saturday morning after I left my house, so it is clear that I was being watched, and I am so thankful that no one was at home when the burglary happened,” said Moyo.
The group of concerned residents cleared thick areas of brush and cleared litter, blankets and clothing left by displaced persons making use of the area. The overgrown area forms part of a nearby electricity distributor box and substation and according to the residents, has been unkempt for years.
“If this area is clear, then it is safer for everyone who stays here. We will have a good line of sight into these bushes and it will also help the police and security companies who patrol. This may not stop the crime, but it can certainly help to prevent it,” concluded Murphy.
