There is progress in Ward 134 councillor Devon Steenkamp’s fight against the 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.

Read more: Ward 102 residents urged to engage on rising crime and by-law concerns

He explained that, so far, there are over 250 residents who have signed the 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 called Imvusa Security.

However, the state of the guardhouse, which was not maintained and is now unsafe and unhygienic, and the non-functioning boom, is making their job difficult, something the city has acknowledged.

Steenkamp said 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.”

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He added that the MMC of Community Development has promised to prioritise the installation of the new boom gate and guardhouse, once service level agreements are signed with a new contractor.

“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 be submitted for the attention of the executives.

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