Pedestrians and employees of local businesses will be familiar with the rows of shoes that line the walls of the building at the corner of Ham Street and General Pienaar Avenue.
The sidewalks have been peculiarly barren this week after the gentleman who runs the informal operation was burgled over the weekend of 27 September. Arriving on Monday morning, as he had done almost every day for the last 15 years, the friendly shoe salesman found nothing but an empty storeroom. This is the third time in less than two years he has been a victim of this type of crime.
The thieves made off with close to 30 pairs of shoes, a few handbags and several items of clothing. Joseph, as he is known to everyone who frequents the area, was distraught to have to again explain the situation to his supplier. He does not own the stock but pays his supplier as he sells the merchandise.
Roodepoort Police spokesperson, Captain Juanita Yorke confirmed the incident, saying, “A case of burglary at a business premises has been opened and is currently under investigation”.
Progress has been made as a few items have been recovered, but the search for the culprit is ongoing. Should anyone have any further information they are asked to contact Roodepoort Police immediately.
