Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp believes there has been progress in his fight against the rise of crime at the Boskruin Community Centre.

The centre has long been a valued public space, but recent incidents of theft, muggings, and vandalism have caused deep concern among residents and facility users. Steenkamp created a petition to try and highlight the issue, and for the South African Police Services (SAPS) to do more oversight.

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Steenkamp explained that the community members have been informing him of cars being stolen at the centre, as well as muggings taking place in the neighbourhood. “This is a real concern. SAPS needs to do more oversight, and actually try and curb the issue we are experiencing. Also, I’m compelling the city to ask them what their plans are, to try and help prevent crime that’s taking place at the centre.”

Years ago, there was a guardhouse at the entrance, but due to lack of maintenance, it became unsafe and unhygienic. Steenkamp said the city removed it. There are also boom gates, but they stand like statues, non-functional. “They could assist with some sort of prevention of crime, just to deter criminals. It may not stop crime, but it can help reduce it.”
Steenkamp added that the MMC of Community Development promised to prioritise the installation of the new boom gate and guardhouse, once service level agreements were signed with a new contractor.

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So far, there are over 250 residents who have signed a petition calling for stronger security measures, a clear message that the status quo is unacceptable. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department security stationed at the centre has now been removed and replaced with private security, from Imvusa Security.

Steenkamp added that he welcomes the acknowledgement from the city that the deteriorated boom gate and guardhouse must be replaced. “However, this should have been addressed long ago. The fact that a previous contractor failed to deliver, highlights the ongoing inefficiency and lack of implementation under the current multi-party government. I will continue to monitor this matter closely and hold the administration accountable until real progress is made.”

The petition will close at the end of October, and then be submitted to the unit for the attention of the executives.

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