Police in eMbalenhle said they have many cases and complaints against scrap-metal businesses in eMbalenhle.
Const Busi Mthethwa, eMbalenhle Police spokesperson, said those cases stem from the suspected stolen goods that the recycling companies buy.
Const Mthethwa said scrap recyclers sometimes buy materials that are stolen from the community infrastructure through vandalism.
Community members complain to the police because they are fed up with vandals who break everything.
“We have so many drug addicts and nyaope smokers because of the scrapyards that are increasing daily in our township. Addicts steal everything that is recyclable to exchange it for money to buy drugs,” said Sphiwe Mahlangu, a resident.
“The community is tired because these addicts steal our gates, door frames, steel poles and other recyclable material to sell to these scrapyards.
“A nyaope addict was beaten to death by the community in Ext 22 last year because he was caught stealing a steel burglar door.
“We don’t promote mob justice, but now we are tired,” said Mahlangu.
Residents said they are not happy about the situation in eMbalenhle and they are afraid that the township will turn into a zombie town due to the high number of young people who become nyaope addicts.
Const Mthethwa said the police are preparing a date when they will meet with owners of scrapyards on how their business contributes to crime in eMbalenhle.
She also said they even want to meet with those who are running illegal scrap businesses.
