WATCH: Is there a syndicate cutting trees in Ridgeway?

Ward 54 Clr Marais Stuart believes the tree that was cut in the park next to Futura Primary School, Leipoldt Street in Ridgeway, fell because its stem was burned.

“The stem of the tree was burned and it couldn’t hold the weight and it fell. I think City Parks cut it,” he said.

In recent months other trees have been cut in the same spot and some community members think there is a syndicate that cut trees. “There seem to be people who cut big trees. Already three big trees have been cut in a month or so. The trees are being illegally cut in the park,” noted one resident.

The Southern Courier contacted Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo for clarity. The response hasn’t been forthcoming.