BARRY HERTZOG PARK – Residents of Barry Hertzog Park were in a recent state of panic after graffiti markings randomly appeared along Frikkie Meyer Street.
The markings resemble that of a tree in a circle, and are spray-painted on walls, electrical boxes and all around the Shisa-Nyama.
Unaware of the meaning behind the markings, residents questioned its sudden appearance; was it gang related or an act of vandalism?
However, information was received that the markings were linked to local talent band Gardeners of Eden; the markings are apparently the logo of the band.
Inquiries were sent to both the Newcastle Municipality as well as the Newcastle SAPS regarding the alleged vandalism.
Response from Protection Services was received on June 12, and the following was stated:
“Kindly note that this is an SAPS matter. It constitutes malicious damage to property and vandalism, hence it will be appropriate to direct the query to SAPS.”
“The detection of these offences can be successful with the help of the community, and by reporting such incidences to the police.”
SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer, Lizzy Arumugam said the police did not know if the municipality knew of the incident.
However, cases of vandalism and malicious damage to property would be investigated.
“This is a punishable offence and people will be arrested and charged if caught vandalising private property.”
Arumugam advised residents to report these perpetrators to the police as soon as they were seen causing damage to any property.
Arumugam advised the community to take note of the following points concerning vandalism and other illegal activities in BHP:
Theft:
One of the major exposures facing vacant property and houses is theft.
Thieves are aware no one is inside, so they select vacant property/houses since there is a lower likelihood of being caught.
“Even if the building is completely empty of at all contents, thieves may still strike to steal copper piping or other valuable building components.”
Vandalism:
Another major concern for vacant building owners is vandalism.
People will break into vacant buildings/houses for a number of reasons, and if given enough time, can cause significant damage.
Vandals find vacant buildings/houses to be easy targets.
“The level of damage can range from something relatively minor like broken light bulbs/windows to extreme amounts of graffiti.”
Trespassing or squatting
Homeless people looking for easy shelter may seek out vacant properties.
In the process, they can cause damage to the building and may reside there for an extended period of time.
Homeless people are not the only trespassing threat for vacant property; people often break into vacant properties to engage in more nefarious, illicit activities.
“The longer a squatter stays in a vacant property, the higher the possibility that large levels of trash and waste will be left behind.”
The Newcastle Advertiser attempted to get comment from members of Gardener’s of Eden, but none was forthcoming at the the time of going to print.
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