Reyno Ridge Ext 6 residents demand action over daily break-ins and illegal dumping
Frustrated homeowners urge the municipality to fence off a vacant site they say acts as a hideout for intruders.
Daily break-ins and an unmaintained dumping site have pushed Reyno Ridge Ext 6 residents to call for urgent municipal intervention.
They allege that criminals brazenly target properties even in broad daylight, using a nearby illegal dumping site and the Spring Valley informal settlement as hideouts.
“We are tired of experiencing such things every day. This place is not safe even in broad daylight,” residents said, adding that electric fences and other security measures fail to deter intruders.
“They take whatever they find, or can get access to,” one resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said.
Call to fence illegal dumping site
Residents have called on the municipality to enclose the dumping site with fencing, arguing that it harbours criminals and poses health risks due to foul smells and pollution.
Councillor acknowledges security concerns
Ward 18 councillor Salome Kriel acknowledged the community’s frustrations, saying crime has indeed increased in the area.
“This raises a huge concern; no one should feel unsafe where they live. I have engaged with the sector manager of the area, but I urge all residents to connect with the local neighbourhood watch group to join the fight against crime and to report matters as they occur,” she said. On the proposal to fence the dumping site, Kriel said, “Yes, I think it’s worth considering. However, it would require municipal approval and funding. Fencing alone won’t solve the problem, but it could form part of the solution.”
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She confirmed receiving reports that criminals use Spring Valley, which is in her ward, and the dumping site as hideouts.
“These concerns have been shared with the relevant authorities, and I’m advocating for increased patrols and better monitoring of the area,” she said.
Residents also complained that the recent municipal clean-up did not include the dumping site.
“From the feedback I’ve received, it appears this area wasn’t properly cleaned. I’ve already raised the matter with the department for additional assistance,” Kriel said.
Kriel outlined steps her office is taking.
“I’ll continue engaging with the municipality, follow up on residents’ complaints, and push for quicker action. I also encourage residents to report every incident so it can be officially recorded.”
If fencing is not possible, she suggested alternatives such as regular clean-ups, clearing overgrown vegetation, improving lighting, and increasing law enforcement visibility.
eMalahleni e-hailing drivers say they are ‘gatvol’ of being trapped in crime they know nothing about.
— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) August 14, 2026
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