Vagrant occupancy on Aerodrome Drive becoming “unsightly”
According to a resident, the vagrants were also seen pitching tents on the grass island
The vagrants occupying the pavement and island between the Northmead Methodist Church and BP on Aerodrome Drive has resulted in some residents not being too pleased with the situation.
The vagrants are found loitering in the area, with some using the space as a makeshift home where they gather during the day and night.
One resident addressed the matter with Ward 27 Clr Jacques Meiring.
In her address she stated:
“The people now have tents up, perhaps not the whole day but at 5.45am when I go to work, there are tents up.
“I have no desire to make a sad situation for the people even worse but is there something reasonable that can be done to remedy this.
“The people cannot keep making the park and the sidewalk their home.
ALSO READ:
Metro takes a hardline on illegal connections
“It is dirty, unhealthy and unsightly and one can’t even walk on the pavement as they are sleeping and lying there.”
The City Times contacted Meiring for comment.
“The situation has been reported to EMPD,” said Meiring.
“The vagrants have pitched tents in the area but this is a difficult situation.
“It’s difficult because the Constitution is clear about laws pertaining to freedom and essentially they (vagrants) are not breaking the law.
“Unless they put up a formal structure our hands are tied.
“EMPD has removed them but they (vagrants) beat them back to the spot.”
EMPD spokesperson Chief Supt Wilfred Kgasago said the challenge regarding the vagrants is that they always return to “hole up illegally”.
“The Benoni Precinct, following complaints regarding the vagrants on Aerodrome Drive from both the community living around the area and the ward councillor, has on several times removed these vagrants,” said Kgasago.
“Metro police periodically monitors the location and whenever they are found they are removed.
“The other challenge is that suggesting arrangements to the vagrants to be moved to homes are always met with rejection.
“Social development has in the past made attempts, to no avail.
“In the interim, the EMPD will keep on removing them with the hope that the problem will be resolved eventually.”
Follow us on these platforms:
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
WhatsApp: 079 431 1217
Instagram: benonicitytimes.co.za
For more #hyperlocal news at your fingertips, visit Boksburg Advertiser, Springs Advertiser, Brakpan Herald, African Reporter and Kathorus Mail.
