JMPD trying to address issues

Clr Victor Penning, a Kensington resident, raised concerns about illegal transport businesses operating from residential properties in ward 66 at a recent Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) meeting.

“There are buses parked on the pavements making it impossible for pedestrians to get through. Pedestrians find it difficult to see oncoming traffic. There are trucks parked on pavements and taxis are causing mayhem, especially around schools. They are putting children’s lives in danger. Taxi drivers block roads, make illegal u-turns and drive vehicles that are not roadworthy. If you drive past some local schools you will see how dangerous their actions are. They are overloading taxis and something has to be done before someone is hurt or killed,” said Clr Penning.

Sergeant Marius Boolsen, from the JMPD, said officers are trying to address the concerns.

“We are trying to keep our visibility up at local schools to prevent taxi drivers from doing as they please. We were informed about taxi drivers posing a danger to children at a school in Cyrildene and we went there to address the problem. The Johannesburg Roads Agency also repainted the speed bumps in the area surrounding the school. The challenge is that we cannot be at every school because our manpower does not allow it. If people can highlight to us which are the most problematic areas, we will try our best to address the problem,” said Sgt Boolsen.

He advised people at the meeting, including Clr Penning, to provide him with details. He also said that people should forward their complaints to the JMPD in writing.

Sgt Boolsen said all other problems, such as illegal parking and businesses, will also be attended to. He advised residents to take photographs of people who are infringing the bylaws.

“If we have physical evidence of a crime that was committed, it makes it easier for us to take action,” he said.