It appears political parties in Springs may soon run out of places to display their campaign posters ahead of the local government elections as an increasing number of lampposts have fallen into disrepair.

The Springs Advertiser recently visited Main Reef Road next to the Ekurhuleni Fresh Produce Market, where an alarming number of lampposts have fallen and are not functioning.

Another concern is that the lack of light on the road is a safety concern as residents have reported criminal activity at the intersection in front of the market.

Resident Maryke Grobler said that she has resorted to rerouting to avoid the intersection once it gets dark.

“A close friend of mine was involved in an incident where her cellphone was stolen during one of these smash-and-grab incidents, and this left her traumatised.

“The only thing that happens next is to go to the police station to get a case number for insurance purposes, but nothing changes and crime increases,” she said.

She called on the municipality and local law enforcement to provide street lighting and implement safety measures.

“There should be highly visible signage warning drivers that this is a high-risk smash-and-grab zone, visible policing and security patrols during peak danger hours and a slip road for a turning lane.

“The traffic light stays red for very long, and we feel like sitting ducks waiting to be hit,” Grobler said.

Springs SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Charity Zwane said police are aware of the incidents.

“At this stage, no arrests have been made as the suspect(s) involved are unknown. The incidents occur within a short space of time, making it difficult to identify the suspect,” Zwane said.

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She urged motorists to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant when approaching the intersection.

“Motorists are advised to keep their doors locked, windows closed and valuables out of sight, and to remain alert to their surroundings.

“Saps has increased visibility in the area, and several vehicle checkpoints have been conducted as part of ongoing crime prevention operations,” she said.

Zwane added that the public is urged to report any suspicious persons, vehicles or activities to the police immediately and to provide police with any information that may assist in the investigation.

Comment was requested from the City of Ekurhuleni, but no response had been received at the time of publication.