The displaced man that has been making big fires and being a nuisance to residents surrounding Cottesmore Park in Bryanston has been removed.
Sandton Chronicle reported on the issue after a portion of the park was set alight by the man in January. However, according to Jason Mogg, a resident in the area, the bigger issue has not been resolved.
Mogg said that they are aware of about nine displaced people living there. “However, with the Saps/ Metro police operation at the end of February, the number is down considerably.
“My concern is both for the residents as well as the people in the park. They each have stories of hardship and most are looking for an opportunity to feel safe.”
He said they are very vulnerable sleeping in the open and often have their possessions stolen while they sleep.
Mogg said he has engaged with some of the displaced people living in the area. “I would like to see the City looking to engage with them and offering the medical assistance that some of them need as well as for the City looking for a sustainable long-term solution for housing for them.
“Many of the residents express the main concerns as health and safety issues as they have no ablutions as well as the fire hazard risk.”
Regarding the one individual who made a nuisance and threatened someone with a panga, many residents did not feel safe. “However, thanks to the hard work of Mike Wood and some of the residents, he has been taken to Helen Joseph for observation and his immediate threat removed.”
According to Mike Wood, Ward 104 councillor, the man has been moved to Helen Joseph for evaluation and treatment.
“As far as the park is concerned it is not classified as a park as such, but a green belt. I am working with Council to get parts of it classified as a park.
“As far as the homeless folk is concerned this remains a huge challenge. There are no shelters in the immediate area for them to go to.”
Wood has asked the residents to keep him informed if shelters are erected and appeal to the residents to use the greenbelt on a regular basis.
What do you think about the story? Shae your views with us on the Sandton Chronicle Facebook page.
