ILLEGAL dumping has become a major bone of contention for many in the Umkomaas area, ever since the closing of the Umkomaas landfill site and some refuse and garden services feel that this issue should not hamper their business.
Over the course of the last few months, illegal dumping on Sappi private property in Craigieburn has taken a toll.
Almost daily, vehicles can be spotted dumping on Sappi land opposite the R197, where, on Friday morning, June 30, several empty cement packets had also been illegally dumped by the transport company tasked with the refurbishment of the R197.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: ‘There simply are not enough jobs,’ says Sappi
The relevant parties were contacted and informed of the dumping and staff were quickly sent to clean up the mess they had made.
Come the next day, a local garden service owner had dumped refuse illegally at the same spot.
A local resident who monitors for illegal activities only became aware of the incident when large quantities of smoke could be seen emanating from the area.
Soon after the waste was set alight, those living in the immediate area were being smoked out of their houses due to the strong wind in the open valley.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN: Sappi ‘chemical spill’ on South Coast beach
The Umkomaas-based eThekwini Fire Department was called to the scene, as was Sappi official, Ephraim Mbanjo.
The owner of the refuse company, who spoke to the Mail at the scene, stated that he had no idea that what he was doing was illegal – he even admitted to having dumped refuse previously.
It was established that he had also been responsible for a fire that ravaged the valley earlier this year.
The police were alerted, a statement was provided by Mr Mbanjo and the man was charged with illegal dumping.
He is expected to appear in the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court soon.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
For news straight to your phone, add us on BBM 58F3D7A7 or WhatsApp 082 421 6033
