GEORGE NEWS - Residents in the eastern suburbs of George say ongoing problems with bag scratchers (informal recyclers) and jobseekers have reached breaking point, disrupting daily life. 

Complaints about litter, noise, trespassing and early-morning gatherings have risen sharply, particularly in Loerie Park on Fridays, refuse collection day. 

One resident counted around 75 bag scratchers moving through three streets before sunrise on a recent Friday.

Homeowners report torn refuse bags, rubbish strewn across pavements, and the theft of items such as outdoor lights and gate-motor components. Some residents have faced confrontations, with reports of knives and pangas being used to intimidate rival pickers. 

The municipality confirmed it has received complaints from residents and urged the public to put refuse out only on the day of collection, report crime to the police, and lodge nuisance complaints with Law Enforcement.

Refuse remains the property of residents until collected, meaning bag scratching and tampering with waste are prohibited under municipal bylaws.

Read more about this in Thursday's George Herald and online.  

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