The Democratic Alliance DA is calling for urgent intervention to address public safety concerns and the social and economic challenges caused by the expansion of informal settlements near highways, intersections and schools in Gauteng.
The DA says numerous complaints have been received from motorists and residents regarding rising crime in areas like Clay Oven and Ginger Farm in Paulshof in northern Johannesburg.
Some reports allege that residents intentionally damage traffic lights to control traffic and solicit donations from passing motorists.
DA Gauteng spokesperson for Community Safety, Michael Sun, says, What might appear as an issue of housing is, in reality, being exploited by criminals. These makeshift settlements provide ideal hideouts for those who commit crime, allowing them to strike at nearby targets and retreat swiftly into the maze of shacks.
"Some of these informal dwellers deliberately damage traffic lights to direct traffic themselves, soliciting donations of money and food from passing motorists. The DA demands that the Department of Community Safety, led by Premier Panyaza Lesufi, and relevant law enforcement agencies act on these criminals who are making life hard for motorists and learners," adds Sun.
