The South African Police Service has noted with concern the article, “Plans to confront squatters, criminals at Wonderboom airport” by the Independent online. The article, purporting that squatters and criminals are marauding in and nearby the airport are false, malicious, misleading, and irresponsible.
According to the article criminals have stolen three cars at the airport, cables were also stolen that were linked to equipment helping pilots to land planes. These crimes were recorded earlier in January.
However, the owner of the land, where the squatters had settled, obtained a High Court order and had them removed. Since then the squatters have not returned and no similar incidents have since been reported around Wonderboom.
The so-called “100 Days Change” operation to work with stakeholders to turn things around, as mentioned in the article, is yet to reach the Sinoville police management, taking into consideration they are the primary stakeholders.
After the January clean-up operation with the land owner and police, there hasn’t been a case registered regarding squatters. Sinoville police will maintain the status quo through the Sector policing manager and the Vispol co-ordinator seconded to the airport
The community is encouraged to interact with the SAPS in their areas through the organised community structures such as the Community Policing Forum, Neighbourhood watch etc.
Information on crime may be reported to Crime Stop via 086 00 10111. All callers may remain anonymous and information will be treated with strictest confidence.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
