Authorities address vagrant problem
Authorities were commended for addressing the vagrant problem in areas such as Queen Street, Kensington, recently.
Several vagrants, including children under the age of five, were taken off the streets by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD), the Cleveland SAPS, the Displacement Unit and other officials.
Business owners and members of the community raised concerns about the vagrants in this area on numerous occasions.
The EXPRESS previously reported that some vagrants were allegedly threatening to assault and rape women, while others were intimidating business owners.
Some business owners literally had to climb over vagrants to gain access to their front doors as well as wash off excrement, urine, bits of glue and pick up litter prior to opening their premises.
Some vagrants were also accused of breaking into businesses and damaging properties.
Last week, a business owner who did not want his name published said, “Following complaints from business owners, a meeting was held between us, the JMPD, the Cleveland SAPS, representatives of the Displacement Unit and other officials. Authorities committed to addressing the problem. An operation was conducted and the results were remarkable. There are still a few vagrants, however there is an improvement in the area. The area is cleaner and it is a pleasure coming to work. It is fantastic to finally say this. The authorities delivered on their promises. Residents are also working closely with us to address the vagrant problem. This shows what can be achieved if people work together.”
At a recent Cleveland Community Police Forum (CCPF) meeting, Sergeant Desmond de Mackett, from the JMPD, said the vagrants were removed and taken to shelters.
Sergeant Marius Boolsen, also from the JMPD, said trying to address problems related to vagrants will always be a challenge.
“Although they were taken to shelters, most of them did not want to stay there. It is disheartening that some choose the streets instead of shelters. It is disheartening, especially to see the children on the streets. We will monitor the situation in the ward,” he said.
Warrant Officer Marx Crouse, from the Cleveland SAPS, and the business owner, said people in the business district are trying to establish a forum to address vagrant-related and other crime-related concerns.
They hope all businesses will come on board.
@JoziReporter
