Categories: News

Bellville Community Calls for Action Following Brutal Attack Near Notorious “Problem House”

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.

Hannah Kriel

Recent Posts

Cape Town’s Transformative Toy Libraries: Revolutionizing Early Childhood Development

Cape Town's toy libraries are changing how young children learn by creating fun and exciting…

1 month ago

Celebrating Ombuds Day: The Unseen Pillars of Urban Governance

Ombuds Day is here, shining a light on the City Ombudsman, a key figure in…

1 month ago

Innovative Urban Water Management: Embracing Wastewater Package Plants

Wastewater package plants are small, smart facilities that help cities manage dirty water in a…

1 month ago

Confronting Illegal Mining in South Africa: A Complex Battle

South Africa is fighting against illegal mining with a strong team of police, soldiers, and…

1 month ago

Balancing Tradition and Safety: Cape Town’s Fireworks Policy

Cape Town is getting ready for exciting celebrations like Diwali and Guy Fawkes Night, but…

1 month ago

Transforming South Africa’s Tourism Landscape: Patricia de Lille’s First 100 Days

In her first 100 days as South Africa's Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille has…

1 month ago