The City of Tshwane has strongly condemned the violent attacks on its waste collection teams in Region 6 on Tuesday, which left one worker injured and disrupted essential municipal services.
Two waste removal trucks were pelted with stones near Vista University on Solomon Mahlangu Drive in Heatherly while en route to the Heatherly landfill site. These trucks, which serve Region 5 areas, were targeted, resulting in one worker being injured and others being left shaken by the violence.
The incidents follow shortly after new service providers were contracted on July 15, 2024. Authorities suspect that the attacks may be linked to disgruntled former workers of the previous waste removal service providers.
City Manager Johann Mettler has expressed outrage at the attacks and is calling for community assistance in identifying the perpetrators.
“We have approached SAPS at the provincial level to join forces with us in our fight against these crimes against the State,” Mettler stated.
The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has heightened security measures to prevent further violence, particularly in the Heatherly area.
“TMPD is also on high alert to clamp down harshly on anyone who partakes in acts of violence against the city property or private property. The cowardly and thuggish attack on the waste trucks will not deter us from continuing to render services to our communities” Mettler said.
The injured worker is receiving medical care, and the waste contractor has withdrawn the two targeted trucks as a safety precaution.
This decision has caused delays in waste collection across several areas, including Mamelodi Ext 20, Lindo Park, Koedoespoort Industrial, and other surrounding communities in Regions 5 and 6.
Residents have been urged to remain patient as the City works to address the backlog.
The catch-up plan is scheduled as follows:
Thursday, September 12: Mamelodi (B3, Phase 4, Ext 6, Gardens, Ext 4, D2, D6, Ext 17)
Friday, September 13: Lusaka, Ext 16, Skhosana Xaba, C4, Moretele View
Saturday, September 14: Five Star SNS, A1, A4, A5, Ext 14
Sunday, September 15: Ext 11 Informal
In another incident, a team of water and sanitation technicians was attacked in Mamelodi while installing pressure monitoring points to address ongoing water supply issues. Their vehicle was stoned, but the team escaped unharmed.
The technicians are now cooperating with police to identify their attackers, while the City remains focused on restoring water services in Ikageng and surrounding areas.
“While the City understands the frustration endured by residents of Ikageng, attacking officials who are trying their utmost best to normalize water supply to the area, is not a solution, as the problem remains unresolved as a result of the violent attack on the team,” said city of Tshwane.
-IOL
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