Kwatsaduza – The City of Ekurhuleni has finally responded to questions sent by the African Reporter following concerns from residents regarding the state of cemeteries within Kwatsaduza.
The issues were featured in the African Reporter’s June 11 edition, ‘Local cemeteries in appalling state’, and detailed concerns from residents about the decaying state of gravesites, lack of security fences, restrooms, municipal offices within the sites and tombstones being vandalised.
Residents stated offices at the cemeteries were being used as hideouts for drug addicts and criminals.
Also read: CPF cleans Geduld Cemetery
In its response, the City said vandalism has occurred even in cemeteries where there is security and lights are present.
“We are aware of such senseless acts. There has been vandalism in various cemeteries across the City, where tombstones and buildings were damaged,” said City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.
“Remember, people normally break the fence for ease of access and you cannot have security at all the open spaces.
“The crux of the matter is that the community needs to behave better and let us respect our beloved relatives who have died.”
Also read: KwaThema Cemetery offices vandalised
However, he added that law enforcement has been engaged and that the MMC for Environment and Waste Management Services, Clr Khosi Mabaso, has been doing rounds with local police to some of the cemeteries.
“The MMC has been working with local authorities to determine the nature of the problem and how best it can be dealt with going forward.
“In the meantime, we need to emphasise the message that we all must respect the deceased,” said Dlamini.
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