WE had a situation here in Empangeni on New Year’s eve at around 8.35pm, when a traffic officer allowed his son to ignite fire crackers.
The entire neighbourhood’s dogs were barking and howling.
My poor dog was trying to break the glass pane at the front door to come inside the house.
My wife and I walked across to ask them in a civilized manner to please stop lighting fire crackers, as it was only allowed on New Year’s eve between 11.45pm and 00.15am.
The traffic cop started shouting and getting abusive towards us, saying that he is in his yard and he can do what he likes.
We then left and called the SAPS at 8.45pm, who said they would send a patrol to investigate.
There were also comments on our Neighbourhood Watch group that somebody should call the SPCA and the Nuisance Inspector to complain.
Other neighbours also tried to speak to the traffic cop, but again he continued to be abusive and aggressive.
He also chased one of our neighbours off the grass verge and said that he waters the grass and flowers at his boundary wall and that it belongs to him as he owns the property.
What happened to the strict water restrictions? Do they not apply to the Umhlatuze Municipality employees as well, or are they exempted from the bylaws?
He also took photos of the vehicles and registration numbers and threatened to watch out for these vehicles on the road – obviously an attempt to victimise the complainants.
In his fury he also turned the situation into a racial issue, saying, ‘in those days we could do what we liked, but not anymore.’
One of our neighbours called the SAPS again at 9.15. Eventually three vehicles with two police officers in each arrived, but no action was taken.
So I ask, are bylaws only applicable to the general public?
IRATE CITIZEN
