Residents in Wedela are increasingly concerned about rising crime in 3rd Avenue, a key street where non-functional street lights have created the perfect conditions for criminal activity after dark.

According to the Wedela SAPS, the street, located near Wedela Primary School, has become a known hotspot for after-hours crime, especially muggings. 3rd Avenue is a main thoroughfare that connects the central parts of Wedela with the area where the Wedela Police Station is located.

Many pedestrians, including school children and workers, rely on this route to reach shops, the taxi rank, and other essential destinations. However, with streetlights that do not work, and a portion of the road passing through bushy, isolated terrain, safety is a growing concern.

“It’s dangerous to walk there after dark, especially in winter when it gets dark early,” said one worried resident.

During a visit to the area, it was clearly visible that several streetlights are either broken or missing globes, rendering them completely non-functional—even during daylight hours.

Community members are pleading with the Merafong City Local Municipality to address the issue urgently. The Herald reached out to municipal marketing and communications manager Temba Fezani on Monday, but no response was received by the time of publishing.

Until the necessary repairs are made, 3rd Avenue will remain a high-risk zone for residents and children who are forced to use it daily.