uMhlanga ratepayers body upbeat after meeting with mayor to address ‘lawlessness’
This comes after residents and the ratepayers body highlighted incidents of reckless driving, nuisance cars and by-law infringements in uMhlanga.
THE uMhlanga Ratepayers’ and Residents’ Association (URRA) has welcomed a recent meeting held with eThekwini Municipality mayor, councillor Cyril Xaba, and various other stakeholders to discuss strategies to improve policing in uMhlanga.
The meeting follows complaints and concerns by residents over what they refer to as the ‘lawlessness’ in the area, and calls for stricter enforcement.
Key among the issues raised at the meeting included reckless driving, noise disturbances, unlicensed public transport operation and alleged drug dealing.
Related story: Tempers flare at community crime imbizo in uMhlanga
The engagement at the Durban City Hall involved Metro Police, the Durban North Community Policing Forum, the uMhlanga Urban Improvement Precinct (UIP), the Ridge Association Management (RAM) and several private security operators.
URRA chairperson Terri MacLarty described the engagement as constructive, inclusive, and forward-focused, reinforcing URRA’s longstanding advocacy for improved safety measures.
“This meeting continues the positive momentum from our August engagement with the mayor. The URRA has consistently pressed for improved law enforcement, co-ordinated patrols, and a dedicated Task Team to address both criminal and by-law enforcement challenges. The inclusion of Metro Police, SAPS, UIP, RAM, and private security partners is essential to achieving meaningful progress. Addressing the issues of taxis, noise disturbances, and nuisance cars is a key component of this intervention,” she said.
MacLarty said they welcomed the administration’s commitment to supporting a joint operation approach.
Related story: Lawlessness on the rise in uMhlanga village say ratepayers, councillor
While discussions are ongoing for permanent solutions and an effective strategy to combat crime, Xaba pledged to ensure increased police visibility and enforcement of by-laws in the area.
“Working together with all relevant stakeholders can assist us in combating criminality as we also explore the use of technology for increased enforcement. Let us ensure that we do not work in silos, as this will reduce our capacity in fighting crime,” Xaba said.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here
