The residents of Buccleuch have had their fair share of illegal dumping. With much frustration, they would like to appeal to all residents to act accordingly.
Lauren Nightingale, a member and on the board of directors of the Buccleuch Residents and Ratepayers Association, shared some more information on the matter.
“There was a Kia that offloaded grass cuttings and topsoil, soon after the driver was supervised to load all the debris back onto the bakkie and was followed out of the area. The dumping happened in Buccleuch on 22 September, there were two separate incidents in one day,” said Nightingale.
She added that the owner of the Kia was traced and contacted. It was found that he stayed in Gallo Manor and he claimed the bakkie was lent out for the day.
Later that day, another incident of dumping took place which led to Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) getting involved.
“The second vehicle dumped bricks and rubble. Sadly the driver wasn’t forthcoming with information. As construction material is non-biodegradable and it was clearly a repeat dump [the area between the reeds along the river is only well-known by locals], we were forced to report the matter to JMPD who ensured the load was put back on the truck and the vehicle was impounded and the driver fined.”
Ward 32 councillor Bongani Nkomo said, “I am indeed aware of the dumping. In fact, on 22 September residents and JMPD seized a vehicle dumping along the river. The vehicle was impounded and a fine was issued.”
He added that residents needed to be more aware of what was happening in their suburb, take pride and report illegal dumping.
JMPD spokesperson Wayne Minnaar said it was important to get all the details of the perpetrators.
“Please ask residents to take pictures with their cell phones of the people seen dumping. Send to WhatsApp 061 486 2058. Very importantly, residents need to take pictures of the vehicle and the number plate so that JMPD can trace the suspects. JMPD will then go to the homes of the suspects and give a R5 000 fine,” said Minnaar.
If the fine is ignored, a warrant of arrest will be authorised by the court and the suspect would be arrested.
Related article:
Dumping problem in Sandton continues but where can you dump legally?