In a media statement on September 8, the DA in Standerton expressed concern over the loss of municipal assets due to poor security management.

This follows the theft of fencing from the Standerton Dumpsite over the weekend of September 6. According to DA Clr Alberto Franco, thieves stole 66 fencing panels from the Standerton Dumpsite.

“This exposes the failure of the appointed security company to safeguard municipal property,” stated Franco.

He added that Clearview fencing at the municipal electrical stores was vandalised, resulting in further losses. Furthermore, municipal buildings such as community halls are frequently vandalised and stripped of equipment, furniture, electrical fixtures, fencing, and roofing sheets.

Franco noted that these incidents occur even while security personnel are on site. He said the DA has called on the municipality to strengthen measures by installing cameras, lighting, and security control rooms, along with adequate personnel on site.

“Surprise oversight visits to high-risk sites continue to reveal that the current security arrangements are inadequate,” stated Franco.

He said security within municipalities is not optional.

“The DA believes the ANC leadership under Executive Mayor Sifiso Mngemezulu is failing to implement legislation and council resolutions regarding security and in doing so, is neglecting its duty to protect municipal property,” said Franco.

Franco said this is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend of mismanagement, poor financial controls, and collapsing service delivery.

The DA plans to submit a motion under the Standing Rules and Orders of Council for consideration at the next sitting. They DA will call for the termination of all outsourced security contracts and for the municipality to procure new ones.

“The DA believes the municipality can manage its own security needs by by insourcing these services. Millions of rand could be saved and redirected to improving security at high-risk areas,” concluded Franco.

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