GEORGE NEWS - A resident of the Dormehlsdrift neighbourhood has aired his concerns about an increasing number of homeless people moving into the nearby forest along the Camphersdrift River.
The resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, says the men, sleeping under makeshift shelters among the bushes, move out into the streets each day.
“They operate in the CBD during the day. I’ve seen some of them open a manhole on the pavement between the post office and the York Park Building in St John’s Street, filling up wheely bins with water that they take around the corner so they can wash cars in the nearby parking areas. We have a strong suspicion some of them are involved in the break-ins we’ve been experiencing at night.”
George Herald has seen footage of break-ins in cars and a person negotiating the boundary wall of a residential property during the night. The most recent incident was on Monday night.
The complainant says when the homeless people move out during the day, they are armed with sticks or golf clubs.
“The other day a fight broke out and one was stabbed and killed. Specific incidents have been reported to law enforcement on various occasions, and they do respond, but the officers don’t enter the forest. They would just shout to the people to leave.
"The situation is getting out of hand, and I’m afraid it might eventually develop into an informal settlement. They sometimes make fires in the forest, which is a huge risk to our area.”
He says they have noticed many more individuals coming into the area over the last two to three weeks. “There’s also been a lot more activity at night, and it seems like some of them have become more aggressive and are carrying more weapons than usual.”
Responding to these concerns, Lee-Anne Meiring, Senior Manager of Community Safety at George Municipality, said law enforcement officers conduct regular patrols in the area and continue to respond to complaints received.
“While our officers assist within the limits of the law, we must also respect the constitutional rights of all individuals, including those who are homeless.”
The land in question belongs to the national and provincial governments.
“The municipality is engaging with these spheres of government to develop a sustainable, long-term solution, as the presence of individuals in this area has become a growing concern for both residents and the city.
"The municipality continues to work with relevant partners to manage the situation lawfully and safely. The public is urged to report concerns through the official law enforcement channels to ensure appropriate action can be taken.”
One of the shelters in the bush.
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