Vigilant officials nab illegal dumpers

THE CITY’s Law Enforcement Department managed to catch occupants of a vehicle who were illegally dumping construction material along Baden Powell Drive.

They fined the driver and impounded the vehicle.

“The type of behaviour displayed by these offenders is completely unacceptable and is a risk not only to the environment but also to public health,” said Mayor Dan Plato.

“I have asked the City’s law enforcement officials to be extra vigilant with those suspected of illegal dumping as they are placing a massive burden on our staff to keep our communities clean when it is private businesses who are making this mess.”

The City has 26 drop-off sites for garden refuse, builders’ materials and any other items that do not fit into household wheelie bins.

“Any person found dumping illegally is issued with a section 56 written notice, which carries a R5 000 fine. The dumper is also liable for an impoundment release fee of R8 426 before they can reclaim their vehicle,” Plato said.

Between July and December last year, the City’s staff impounded 21 vehicles and issued fines totalling R94 950 in terms of the Integrated Waste Management By-law.

“We urge members of the public to help us catch these criminals who are polluting our communities and effectively forcing the City to spend millions of rand each year to clean up their dirty deeds – money that can be spent more effectively on service delivery,” Plato said.