Cutting criminal activity at the roots

The long grass On Kiewite Street in Allens Nek has been a breeding ground for criminal activity, and a fitting location for criminals to conceal themselves.

The grass in the open field is so high that it is virtually impossible to see the surrounding houses.

As a result, several houses have been robbed and broken into.

“We have had three burglaries in a week. Residents are being mugged on that road because you don’t know who is hiding in the grass, it is so high up. You can’t even see the car’s headlights when patrolling around there because it is so dense,” said chairperson of the Allens Nek Resident’s Association, Tony Wilkinson.

Wilkinson said that it is especially tough for the women who pass through the area, after an attempted rape recently.

Furthermore, pupils from Allen Glen High School are also vulnerable as they can be targeted and harmed.

Members of the association cut down the grass in some parts to increase their visibility during patrols, and Wilkinson said they plan on cutting it again soon.

Ward 126 councillor, Mike Tonkin said the grass will be cut down in the near future.

“I have had the management of the City [of Johannesburg] specifically in those areas and we are arranging to cut that grass by the end of the month. It is the mandate of the Johannesburg Roads Agency to maintain the metro boulevard and the long grass. I know that they were given permission by City Parks to cut the grass. It will happen soon.”

According to Wilkinson, a majority of the residents in the area support the idea to close the off Kiewiet road, which leads to the open field which has now become a target area.