Robbery spike: Northdene residents demand action
Residents have called for PRASA to clear the overgrown bush in Vausedale Road as criminals are using it as a hideout.
A SPATE of robberies in the Northdene area has sparked concern for residents, who have called on Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) officials to clear up the overgrown bush.
According to Julian Isaac, the administrator for the North Park Neighbourhood Watch (NPNW), there has been an increase in robberies in the last month. The most recent incident took place on Wednesday, November 17. Domestic workers were robbed, while walking to work, on Vausedale Road.
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He reported that criminals use the overgrown bush on Vausedale Road as a hideout while waiting for domestic workers to walk past. When the domestic workers approach, the thugs are said to jump out from behind the bush and threaten the unsuspecting victims with a knife. They demand valuables, cash and cellphones. The criminals reportedly use the railway track to escape. The open and overgrown railway line is also being used, on a daily basis, by criminals as an easy getaway after they commit house robberies and other crimes.
“We urgently need to get the bushes trimmed on Vausedale Road to try and assist with the reduction of crime,” said Isaac.
A group of residents in the area have requested help from PRASA on numerous occasions, but to no avail. In desperation, one resident bought a chain and padlock to lock up the main gates that open up to the railway line.
As a plan to curb the crime, the NPNW appealed to residents for help.
“Residents, we are busy with a plan of action to get all major roleplayers involved. If you know of any helper that has been robbed while walking to work, we urge you to please take them to Malvern SAPS. They need to report it and get a case number. We ask all our residents to please be alert. Report any suspicious behaviour,” said Isaac.
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Jasmine Norris, the public relations officer of the Malvern Community Police Forum, said, “CPF patrollers are aware of the situation and have been assisting NPNW.”
Sgt Sthembile Kheswa, the communications officer at Malvern SAPS confirmed two incidents of robberies in that vicinity in the last two weeks. She also called on the public to encourage domestic workers to report the incidents to the police so they have a better description of the criminals.
PRASA officials could not be reached for comment, despite several attempts made by the Queensburgh News.
Caxton Local Media Covid-19 reporting
