Confusion surrounded a Metro police raid that took place on the corner of President Fouche Road and CR Swart Drive, Northwold, on 25 February.
Ward 101 councillor Ralf Bittkau had raised the issue of vagrants living on the corner who were allegedly running a shebeen in the bushes and accompanied Metro police on the raid
The police did not search the shebeen but were seen walking around the area.
When the officer in charge was asked by a Randburg Sun journalist why he was there he pointed to Bittkau and said he could explain.
Bittkau said he did not see any vagrants during the raid and called the raid a “big show”.
“I think the Metro police just wanted to be seen,” he said. “They did not look for the shebeen. I have heard the shebeen is doing as well as ever.”
Metro police spokesperson Wayne Minnaar said the raid was not conducted because of vagrants. “Metro police raided that location on that day because crime was committed,” he said. “Vehicle’s windows were smashed and valuables were taken. There was also littering.” He said there would be a follow-up raid.
However, Bittkau steadfastly maintained that the raid was supposed to deal with the vagrant problem.
“I raised this issue with them [Metro police],” he said. “Police have a shelter or registration centre for vagrants in Hillbrow for them to be registered and taken off the streets. They are then supposed to be released into different areas, to make them uncomfortable of that way of life.”
Details: Metro police: 011 375 5911, Ward 101 councillor Ralf Bittkau 084 572 4002.
