Edleen Residents Seek Crime Solutions

The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, has confirmed that normal policing efforts are underway in Edleen, a response to concerns raised by residents regarding escalating crime levels in the area. While Dlamini couldn’t provide detailed information about the operations, he emphasised that law enforcement activities fell under the jurisdiction of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

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This statement follows a report published by the Kempton Express on September 21, highlighting the worsening crime situation in Edleen. According to residents, crime has surged over the years, and they feel abandoned by both their local councillors and the police, leaving them vulnerable to criminal activities.

Much of the reported criminal incidents appear concentrated along Plataan Avenue, situated opposite the railway line. In an effort to address the issue and enhance safety in their neighbourhood, residents have placed large rocks across Plataan Avenue as a crime prevention measure. While not universally supported within the community, many residents believe it’s a necessary action to draw attention to their plight and stimulate action from law enforcement and municipal authorities.

Phistos Ramano, a community member, explained their reasoning, stating, “We placed the rocks on the road as a crime prevention measure. Not everyone in the community agrees with this measure, but most of us agreed that this is the only way that will make the police and the municipality hear our cries.”

Residents have also established a WhatsApp group to alert each other about suspicious activities. They’ve reported a lack of police patrols in the neighbourhood, which they believe contributes to the high crime rate. They hope that increased police visibility will significantly improve the situation.

Residents are considering enclosing the area to enhance safety and combat crime. Dlamini stated that the community could apply for enclosure through the CoE planning department, with the assurance that the matter would be thoroughly investigated before making a decision. He also emphasised that constructing enclosures without city approval is illegal.

Norkem Park SAPS sector managers and Gauteng crime prevention wardens removed the rocks blocking the road on September 13, warning residents about the dangers and illegality of such actions. However, residents quickly reinstated the roadblock after the police left.

Ramano believes that their community measures have effectively reduced suspicious activities in the area. “Since we placed the rocks on the road, there has been no suspicious activity,” he noted.

Source: Edleen residents want solutions for crime

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Photo: Supplied by Kempton Express