Desperate for their voices to be heard, community members residing in the railway houses on Paterson Street drafted a letter to Newcastle SAPS on November 30.
In a final plea for intervention, residents claimed that while they had become accustomed to living in fear, they would no longer tolerate feeling like they were under house arrest.
“They continue to defecate in front of our yards and swear at us. We don’t know what to do anymore,” explained a dejected homeowner.
An excerpt from the letter read, “Houses one to eight are [occupied by] pensioners. Most of the pensioners are widows and value their safety and peace and quiet.”
The residents outlined their frustration with having to witness alleged sex workers frequenting the vacant land opposite their homes.
Of greater concern was the allegation that an ‘attempted hit’ could be carried out at one of their homes at any point in time. With strange vehicles parked off just shy of their doorstep, they felt their uneasiness was not unjustified.
“You never know what could happen. This is uncalled for; this is no life,” they added
Photographic evident showed the letter was signed by several residents, and delivered to Newcastle SAPS Station Commander, Brigadier Bhekani Buthelezi on December 1. According to the residents, official feedback on the content of the letter would be forthcoming.
Later that day, it was reported to the Newcastle Advertiser that activity in the area was minimal, and a good night’s rest may well be on the cards.
In a previous edition, SAPS spokesperson, Captain Shooz Magudulela said regular patrols could be set up in the area, provided residents reported isolated incidents to them.
After receiving feedback from police, the residents stated the first patrols were conducted on December 7. Officers reportedly made their presence known from about 7.15pm that evening.
With the assistance of law enforcement, the community can only hope change is on the horizon. While it seems the battle is far from over, residents maintained they would not go down without a fight.
“We will do what we can to ensure the police and Newcastle Municipality resolve the issue,” they concluded.
At the time of publication, the SAPS Communications Department said they had no knowledge of a letter being delivered to the station.
What do you think can be done to change the face of ‘Shame Street’? We want to hear from you – email as at ncschools@caxton.co.za
