While commuting the area, residents have over the years noticed graffiti on walls of buildings in the city and wanted to know whether it should be considered as vandalism.
According to Ward 94 councillor David Foley, the graffiti that is seen on City property is considered vandalism. “The graffiti brings down the value of the area and as soon as there is such in the area it shows a sign of hooliganism in our midst. Residents in the area should stop vandalising our buildings.”
Foley added that there should be a graffiti wall erected in the area to allow people to express themselves. “We should have these walls erected in our parks and maybe once a month we can paint over the graffiti and allow other artists to express themselves as their art will remain for the month.”
When asked his thoughts on graffiti versus vandalism, Metro police spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar explained that it depended on whether people were spraying art on their [own] walls or City property. “If people are drawing graffiti on their [own] walls it is not considered an offence, as long as the art isn’t offensive or infringing on the dignity and rights of others.”
He added that if people drew graffiti on City property’s walls it will then be considered an offence. “If people are found drawing on City walls or buildings, it will be deemed to be malicious injury and damage to property. If they are found in the act, they will then be arrested and locked up at the police station and will appear in court.”
What are your thoughts on vandalism in the area? Share your views on the Fourways Review Facebook page.
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