Crime prevention operation in Richards Bay unearths illegal dumping
The operation was a joint initiative of the SAPS, Meerensee CPF and CRG Security
EARLY morning crime prevention operations in greenbelts, vacant properties and building sites in Richards Bay on Thursday, uncovered an alarmingly high rate of illegal dumping taking place in these spaces.
A joint operation consisting of 25 members of the Richards Bay SAPS, CRG Security and Meerensee Community Policing Forum (CPF) patrol volunteers, combed the green belts in residential and central business areas.
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The green belts were found to be in an appalling state as they have become dumping grounds for garden refuse, building rubble and general waste.
While it has been noted that these areas have not been maintained for a long time, the illegal dumping has been condemned by authorities as residents and businesses should utilise landfill sites.
The purpose of the operation was to support the crime fighting efforts of police and the CPF, who were given the go-ahead to commence with their night patrols last weekend.
The empty and half-built properties in Krewelkring, Jaqueta, Jacopever and Garrick Rise remain a serious concern.
Areas where most dumping took place were behind the taxi rank in Richards Bay CBD and next to Andrews Lane in Meerensee.
The Meerensee CPF has appealed to the community to volunteer for patrols to help increase their teams.
Residents are also urged to assist in cleaning areas around their properties and report illegal dumping of waste in public spaces.
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