SESHEGO – AWAY from the safe tarred streets fixed with streetlights in Seshego’s main zones, the narrow footpaths leading to the nearby extensions are deadly crime spots, the police have cautioned.
To get through the veld that connects Madiba Park, Extension 75, Luthuli Park, Legae la Batho, Hospital View and Extension 73, you will need a machete or an axe, as well as strength and courage.
Spokesperson for the Seshego police, WO Mothemane Malefo has warned residents to avoid these footpaths after sunset.
“These shortcuts are extremely dangerous, especially between dusk and sunrise when there are no frequent movements of other pedestrians.
“Because these paths are narrow and isolated, criminals often take advantage of lone passersby and mug them.
“There have been many cases of armed robberies, murders and rapes in these vicinities.
“We are calling on residents in these areas to avoid these isolated paths after sunset,” Malefo said.
With shopping centres located in Seshego and Madiba Park, residents say they are forced to tread along these dangerous paths despite the prospect of being harassed.
Luthuli Park resident, Tho-mas Mongalo says: “since we live in a newly-established settlement, we are forced to negotiate our way though these dodgy routes.
“We are left with no choice but to expose ourselves to precarious situations during our daily trips to health facilities, police station, shopping malls and other services in the township.
“It is during these dangerous trips that people become vulnerable to criminals who are always on the lookout for their victims”.
Elias Romokaba, a resident of Extension 44, says they fear for their lives.
“It is very dangerous to tra-vel along these narrow paths.
“We travel in fear in our own neighbourhoods because of criminal gangs who are holding us ransom and make our lives a living hell.
“The police should intervene by patrolling these routes as they are aware of the dangers we are exposed to.”
