THE community of Kenville plans to clamp down on scrap metal dealers that purchase stolen items.

Jesse Singh, the chairman of the Kenville Sea Cow Lake Ratepayers Association, told the Northglen News that the association was concerned about the rise in theft in the area.

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“It’s especially worrying that older people are targeted and go through the stress and trauma of experiencing such incidents,” said Singh. He added that items are sold for very little compared to what they actually cost.

“For example, a tap is generally sold to a scrap metal dealer for about R30, yet the cost to replace it is far more,” he said.

Wayne Govender, the chairperson of the Sub-Forum 3 Community Policing Forum, said there are about 20 registered cases per month where items were stolen. He believes it will be sold as as scrap metal.

“Homes are being vandalised and infrastructure is being destroyed. Copper cable theft is rife in the area and it has to stop,” said Govender.

He said the CPF had footage of items being stolen and intends to use it to stop theft in the area.

“We want to work together with SAPS to put an end to these incidents. We are aware of which scrap metal dealers are purchasing these stolen items from criminals,” he said.

He added that residents were irate and have had enough of the theft and vandalism.

A peaceful march will be held on Saturday, January 29 from the Shri Vishnu Temple at 10:00.