It seems that for every step forward the council takes in attempting to fix the problems that irk both motorists and pedestrians utilizing the dilapidating Military Road, the council is being pushed two steps backwards by selfish criminals who loot municipal infrastructure and resources for their own gain, with complete disregard for the greater community.
In the most recent case, fencing erected by the council alongside Military Road, preventing pedestrians from crossing Military Road or falling into the drain ditch, has been looted, leaving the area as well as the nearby drainpipe dangerously exposed.
Bengal Street resident and technician for the City of Tshwane municipality, in the Pretoria West region, Morsen Malete (43), spoke to the Laudium Sun regarding the theft of chunks of palisade fencing, “I am concerned about the area and its condition, as well as so disappointed in these criminals who are creating bigger problems for the community.
“We have to deal with criminals picking away at the fencing that was meant to protect pedestrians and cars from falling into the rain water gulley. There are so many schoolkids from nearby schools like Andrew Anthony and Hillside Primary, who walk along this route, to school and back home, on a daily basis. Some of the younger more curious kids may be tempted to explore the gulley area and could hurt themselves really badly if they fall in, and could even drown when it rains,” Morsen exclaimed.
He continued, “I am telling you these fences have been stolen to resell as scrap metal, to some greedy scrapyard owner for a few rand only. I think these thieves commit these crimes in the late hours of the night, while residents are fast asleep and police are nowhere in sight. Since the police station is just two streets away from the Military Road, I don't understand how they cannot spot these thieves who are probably carrying away these fences. I mean it's not like you can just fit the fence into your pocket," Morsen exclaimed.
Councillor Mahomed Essop said that the theft of the fencing was reported to him and urges anyone with information regarding the theft to contact the local SAPS, so that the criminals can be brought to book.
Technician for the City of Tshwane municipality, Morsen Malete, points to gaps in the fencing, caused by the theft on Military Road.
A deep gulley lies adjacent to the gaping fenceless area, posing a threat to passing pedestrians, especially children.