Residents of Bellville are demanding swift action from authorities in response to a vicious assault that occurred near a notorious “problem house” in the neighborhood. The attack left Wiehan Smalberger, an OK Foods merchandiser, without a kidney and with significant injuries.
The Problem House
Located in Mooigezicht Street, Chrismar, the house became a hotbed of disorder after its owner passed away. Homeless individuals soon occupied it, stripping the residence of valuable items like taps, wires, basins, and toilets. The property has since become a site of fires, defecation, and now, violence.
The Attack
The assailants stabbed Smalberger multiple times in the face, kidney, and back, and robbed him of his phone while he was on his way to work. Despite his injuries, he managed to reach the Blomtuin Shell Garage, where the police were called to the scene.
The Response
Bellville Police Station spokesperson Capt. Aubrey Morwenyane confirmed that a case of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm has been opened. However, no incidents have been reported at the Mooigezicht Street address. Both Smalberger’s employer, Edward Ribeiro, and Johan van Zyl, the Shell station owner, attribute the attack to the notorious house’s occupants.
The Problem Building
The Mooigezicht Street property has plagued the Chrismar Neighborhood Watch for months, with its chair, Theo Galloway, contacting the police almost daily. The City of Cape Town’s law enforcement spokesperson, Wayne Dyason, confirmed that the property has been categorized as a “problem building” under the Problem Property By-law. Dyason urged residents to report any criminal activities to the South African Police Service to address the ongoing issues.
The Call to Action
The disturbing incident involving Smalberger highlights the pressing need for authorities to take swift action and address the concerns surrounding problem properties, ensuring a secure environment for all residents. The Bellville community calls for a proactive approach to managing problem properties, coupled with increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, to help create a safer, more harmonious living environment for everyone. By tackling these issues head-on and collaborating with local communities, law enforcement can work towards reducing crime and improving the overall quality of life in Bellville and other neighborhoods affected by similar problems.
