Roosevelt Park residents acted decisively to confront a recurring illegal street racing problem that has plagued the area for more than six months.

One night, resident Yusuf Kader described hearing a vehicle spinning dangerously on Beyers Naudé Drive near the fire station around 11:30pm.

“This has been going on for months, and the community has been discussing how to stop it,” Kader said. “I decided to find out who the culprits were.”

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Kader retrieved his car keys and gave chase, following the vehicle as it moved to another location. Other residents acted as spotters, helping to box the car in until Beagle Watch security and more residents arrived.

Although Sophiatown SAPS was called, Kader said officers seemed frustrated, noting that spinning was not a typical complaint. He also observed at least two JMPD vehicles passing without stopping.

Kader stressed that spinning poses serious risks: “The residents are concerned about their safety. This is asking for an accident to happen or an altercation between residents and the drivers spinning their vehicles.” He added that the noise disturbs families and damages already ageing roads.

No parents were present when the teenagers were confronted, though one father later arrived questioning why his son had not been disciplined

JMPD Superintendent Xolani Fihla responded, emphasising police protocols. “A single patrol unit encountering a large, volatile crowd at a spinning event must first assess the situation and call for tactical backup if necessary,” he said.

Fihla noted that JMPD’s Regional Office had no record of repeated complaints at this location. He urged residents to report incidents formally, provide reference numbers, and involve councillors to ensure coordinated responses.

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Illegal street racing remains a high–priority offence. Verified hotspots are monitored by the Tactical Response Unit using unmarked vehicles and social media intelligence, with unsafe vehicles subject to immediate impoundment.

Fihla concluded that JMPD will continue monitoring Beyers Naudé Drive but stressed that community cooperation and proper documentation are essential. Residents are encouraged to attend Community Policing Forum meetings to strengthen enforcement efforts.

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