Another drug den exposed
Empty straws of heroin and used condoms were in plain view.
SEVEN months have passed and Erskine Street residents are furious that nothing has been done about the two abandoned Department of Public Works owned houses, which have been a haven for drug addicts and prostitutes.
Despite Ranjay Narain – an investigator at the KwaZulu-Natal’s branch of the Public Protector’s Office – advising that “urgent steps be taken to attend to the matter,” nothing has been done.
And now it seems as though another Scottburgh property has fallen prey to drugs and prostitution.
A property situated in Marine Terrace has been left to decay and it seems as though almost nobody cares.
House no 115 appears to be illegally occupied, according to an anonymous local who brought the property to the Mail’s attention.
Upon investigation of the detached smaller property, it was discovered that signs of drug use and prostitution were present, with empty straws of heroin and used condoms clearly visible.
That the property is also being used as an illegal dumping zone.
Makeshift beds were found inside the property, suggesting that vagrants might have occupied the building.
Human faeces could be seen in almost every corner of each room.
The Mail went to investigate the main building on the property and was startled to find people present. “No, she is not home,” said a resident upon being asked if the owner iwas available.
The resident, who identified himself as Bheki, added that he was unsure when she would be back.
Meanwhile, a guard has been placed to monitor the situation in Erskine Street.
John Cele – who claims to be employed by Umdoni Municipality – stated that he had reported drug use to the Scottburgh SAPS after he caught people smoking whoonga on the premises.
The SAPS were contacted to find out if a case had been opened, but said no such case had been reported.
“I am concerned,” said the guard, adding that he had not been paid for his services.
Umdoni Municipality was also contacted for comment, but no response had been received at the time of writing.
Chairman of the Scottburgh Ratepayers Association, William Pienaar, was concerned. “Unfortunately, there is no progress,” said Mr Pienaar, explaining that only roof tiles have been removed from one of the buildings.
The Department of Public Works was requested for a progress update, but no feedback had been received.
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