The Queensmead Mall precinct, including Weston Road and Teignmouth Road, has become increasingly concerning for residents, businesses and stakeholders in Umbilo.

In April, Umbilo SAPS, during their crime awareness campaign, identified the area as one of the crime hotspots. Over time, the situation has escalated.

The community has raised concerns regarding public drinking and anti-social behaviour, alleged illegal sale of alcohol, suspected drug-related activities, excessive noise and ongoing disturbances, illegal and obstructive parking, severe traffic congestion, heavy trucks allegedly obstructing roads and access points, and damage and deterioration of roads and other infrastructure allegedly associated with heavy-vehicle activity.

Also read: Umbilo SAPS bolsters visibility as new ‘tricks’ emerge

Ward 33 councillor Fran Kristopher has called for an urgent co-ordinated law-enforcement response, and has written a formal complaint to the eThekwini Municipality senior management, and law-enforcement unit.

“These concerns cannot simply be allowed to become the normal state of affairs in our communities,” said Kristopher.

“Residents and businesses have a reasonable expectation that municipal by-laws and the law will be enforced consistently. Where allegations are made, they must be properly investigated, and where offences are confirmed, appropriate enforcement action must follow.”

Also read: ‘Street bash’ sparks enforcement outcry in Davenport

Kristopher is calling for a multi-disciplinary enforcement operation involving Metro Police, SAPS, Traffic Enforcement, Business and Liquor Licensing, Environmental Health, Law Enforcement and relevant municipal infrastructure departments.

“The operation should include inspections of affected areas and businesses, enforcement against unlawful parking and obstruction, investigation of liquor and noise complaints, assessment of alleged drug activity, and an evaluation of damage to municipal infrastructure.

“The issue is not about targeting legitimate businesses or residents. It is about ensuring that everyone operates within the law and that our public spaces, roads and infrastructure are protected,” said Kristopher.

“The community deserves visible, consistent and sustained enforcement — not only occasional operations after problems have escalated.”

Kristopher said she would continue engaging the relevant City departments and law-enforcement structures on behalf of affected residents, businesses and stakeholders.

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