Locals tackle overgrowth at dam after violent break-in
“I must be frank, I feel angry — this is the City of Ekurhuleni’s land, it is their responsibility,” said one resident, calling for urgent municipal action.
It was all hands on deck when community members and volunteer organisations banded together to remove and clear vegetation from the Minuach Road attenuation dam.
Prompted by a recent home invasion, the clean-up started on May 12 and continued for four days.
According to Ward 92 Clr Kade Guerreiro, two elderly community members who live near the attenuation dam were accosted by a group of suspects who gained entry into their homes.
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“According to the information I received recently, there was a bad break-in involving an elderly couple.
“Four perpetrators got into their home, tied the couple up and assaulted one of the victims,” said Guerreiro.
He said it’s believed the suspects had hidden themselves in the overgrown property of the attenuation dam before gaining entry to the couple’s property and home.
Edenvale Police Station’s communications officer requested confirmation and additional information about the break-in on May 14. However, no information had been provided by the time this article went to print.“
“It has been three years since the City of Ekurhuleni last tended to the dam. Unfortunately, the city’s response to this situation is that there is no budget and there is nothing it can do.”
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He said the city could not assist the parks, roads, and stormwater departments.
Guerreiro highlighted that the attenuation dam needs to remain clear not only for the security of neighbouring residents but also to assist with additional rainwater run-off during storms.
“The community is fed up; they can no longer wait for the CoE and it means the community has had to get involved,” said Guerreiro.
Community organisations and businesses which assisted included Essentially Edenvale, Keep Klopperpark Clean and Mamba Security.
“We can only thank the community for their donations and the extra hands.”
Guerreiro said that because the volunteers had limited resources, their goal was to remove as much vegetation as possible by May 16.
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“We need the space to be as clear as possible,” he added.
Guerreiro said the situation has left him feeling despondent.
“I feel angry. This is the CoE’s land and it is their responsibility,” said Guerreiro.
He said many of the parks in the Buurendal suburb are already maintained by the community.
A request for comment was sent to the City of Ekurhuleni on May 13, requesting comment by May 16 at 13:00. At the time of going to print, no comment was received.
