Police house is now a hideout for criminals

KEMPTON SAPS have urged residents to report suspicious activities at a vacant house close to the central business district.

This comes after a resident expressed her concern regarding the house, which is becoming dilapidated and has become “a home for drug addicts and the homeless”.

The house in question is situated at the corner of Friedman Street and Du Plessis Avenue.

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The resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said the home had not been occupied for some time, which had also resulted in it becoming a “hideout” for criminals.

“The house is a wreck. The windows are broken and it is very dirty. This is now the home of homeless people and drug addicts. About a month ago a bakkie was stolen behind Nimrod Hardware and Baker’s Centre on Monument Road and the suspects fled to this house where the police caught them,” the resident explained.

“The police were looking for suspects in connection with other cases here as well. They promised they would do something about this drug hole but weeks later more and more people staying there. On the morning of November 4 a fire truck was there too,” said the resident.

According to Kempton SAPS spokesperson, Capt Jethro Mtshali, the house in question belongs to the SA Police Department and is managed by the Tembisa cluster supply chain management.

The purpose of the home is to house police officers but with the three-year allocation process, several members were issued with notices to vacate the premises. Since then, the house hasn’t been occupied.

“This office is currently in the process of negotiating with the Department of Public Works for the possible renovation of the house in question. For a reason unknown and beyond this office, the said property has not been occupied for some time,” Mtshali clarified.

“Due to the escalating crime alleged to have been committed there, management of the station has assigned visible policing members to constantly patrol the area in an effort to curb crime.”

Mtshali said several arrests have been made.

“We appeal to the community to have patience with us as the matter is beyond this office, however, we will negotiate the matter and request for the process to be expedited,” Mtshali concluded.

Police also in the meantime request anyone who notices suspicious activities taking place at the property to notify them or the sector vehicle on 071-675-6816 or 071-675-6817. Alternatively, send an SMS to 32211 or call 08600 10111.