Keanan Harmse
Two municipal bollards in Klip Road, Grassy Park were recently reinstalled after a pair was caught trying to remove them on Monday December 1.
Ward 65 councillor Donovan Nelson said he was informed of the attempt to remove the two bollards illegally by a tip-off from vigilant residents that evening.
The incident on Monday evening, 1 December, prompted a full criminal investigation involving multiple City departments and law-enforcement agencies.
Crime in Progress Disrupted
“I went to the scene immediately and found two individuals in the process of carrying them away. Questioned, they pointed to a receptionist working at the doctor’s office adjacent to the bollards as the source of their instruction. One suspect fled and the other was detained and arrested on site.
Public safety at risk
The bollards were installed as crucial safety infrastructure to protect both pedestrians and motorists by preventing illegal parking, reducing safety hazards and maintaining clear visibility along the road, he added.
“Their unlawful removal puts the public at risk,” Nelson emphasised. “As ward councillor I have submitted this information to the Police for criminal investigation, referred the matter to the City’s Special Investigations Unit and requested all parties involved be charged and held accountable.”
The City of Cape Town says they are aware of the removal of the bollards.
“The bollards were reinstated the very next day, Tuesday 2 December,” said Mayco member for Urban Mobility Rob Quintas.
Community cooperation
Nelson praised Grassy Park residents who alerted authorities and cooperated throughout the investigation.
“I want to thank the residents of Grassy Park who alerted me, cooperated and stood firm for accountability and safety. The community plays an active role in resisting criminal interference in our neighbourhood.
