Abandoned JCP building allegedly used as a drug den in Halfway House
JCP spokesperson Lucky Sindane said they are not aware of the old library building being hijacked, and it is now out on tender.
An abandoned building in Halfway House belonging to the Johannesburg Property Company (JPC) is allegedly been used as a drug den.
The building which was previously used as a community library is situated on South Street opposite the Boulders Taxi rank.It was the subject of the Midrand CPF’s public meeting on March 27 and was discussed at the Halfway House Development Forum meeting on April 4.
A community member, who requested not to be named for fear of victimisation by the drug dealers, claimed that drug addicts bought drugs in the building and used them inside.
“The trading of drugs in this building has been happening for some time… It’s a dodgy building and very unhygienic because of all the shenanigans happening there. It was previously used as a library and it’s sad to see many nyaopes [drug addicts] there, and it seems like there is no action from the authorities. The kids are injecting themselves and getting intoxicated,” claimed the community member.
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The spokesperson for JPC Lucky Sindane confirmed that the building was owned by the entity. He said the building was currently out on tender and they were not aware of any illegal drug trading taking place there.
“We would like to encourage the members of the public to report any illegal activities to the law enforcement agencies,” added Sindane.
“The city’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services [GFIS] department is mandated to deal with hijacked properties in the city working together with the law enforcement agencies. GFIS can give a breakdown of suspected hijacked properties in the city. The JPC is not aware that the property has been hijacked.”
When asked if JPC would consider demolishing the building Sindane replied, “It is not possible to demolish the building as it is out on tender.”
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The station commander of the Midrand police Brigadier Molefi David Tsotsotso said residents needed to provide information to law enforcement on drug dens so warrants could be obtained to search them.
“SAPS can take residents with them in an unmarked vehicle to point out crime areas and criminals so that criminals can be arrested. Midrand has a challenge with drugs… Such issues can be brought to me directly so we can deal with them,” concluded Tsotsotso.
Details: jhbproperty.co.za
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