Merebank residents are uniting to demand action and clarity from authorities over the abandoned South African National Defence Force (SANDF) base.

According to reports, the site has transformed into an unexpected refuge for homeless individuals from nearby Lamontville.

While the base, once a bustling military site, has largely been deserted, its new occupants have sparked fears among local residents regarding crime and community safety.

A site visit by the Daily News revealed numerous old military vehicles seemingly left to wither on the lot, standing as a stark reminder of a time when the facility served its intended purpose.

Mike Moodley, a resident of Merebank for many years, voiced his concerns regarding the increasing foot traffic from the base.

“This is wrong because we are going to see more crime from people moving into the neighbourhood. At the very least, the government should consider turning this space into a recreational facility for the community,” Moodley said.

His words echoed a sentiment felt by many residents who fear that the presence of homeless individuals could foster an environment conducive to crime.

Moreover, local businesses are feeling the effects of the transformation. Stanley Govender, who operates a car wash in close proximity to the abandoned site, noted that the area’s deteriorating reputation has deterred customers.

“This problem with the base has affected my business a lot. People are scared to come here now because they don’t feel safe,” Govender lamented, highlighting the wider impact on the local economy.

Adding to the concerns, Dr Christopher Moonsamy, another local resident, expressed unease over the presence of the homeless population.

“This is a big worry for us. We don’t have clear information on what’s going on at the base, but we do know that many homeless people have found shelter there,” Moonsamy stated, emphasising a need for transparency and action from local authorities.

The community’s rising alarm led to residents reaching out to the media, with Moodley urging others to unite in seeking a viable solution.

“We hope this will help push authorities to take the matter seriously and find a proper solution,” he concluded with a call to action that resonates with many in the area.

As of now, efforts to elicit a response from the defence ministry regarding the situation remain unanswered. The local community is determined to advocate for their safety and wellbeing, hoping to reclaim the abandoned space for a beneficial purpose.

IOL

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