News / Local
Baboon menace rocks Pumula South residents
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Residents of Pumula South's Phase 3 in Ward 17 are raising alarm over a growing population of baboons that has disrupted their lives, caused property damage, and endangered their safety. The animals are breaking into homes, ransacking them for food, and destroying property, leaving the community desperate for a solution.
The baboons have caused significant destruction, including tearing apart roofing materials and damaging electronic devices. Residents also report that the animals aggressively prune unripe fruits from trees and discard them after a few bites. In some cases, the baboons attack broiler and layer chickens, eating into residents' livelihoods.
"They are a nuisance. They break into homes and gardens, leading to costly repairs. Something needs to be done urgently," said resident Mr. Nkosinathi Sibanda.
The animals have become increasingly bold, with reports of them targeting women and children, snatching food items as they return from local shops.
Ward 17 Councillor Sikhulekile Moyo expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting its impact on daily life.
"Baboons are causing havoc in Pumula South. They have destroyed roofs, and with the recent rains, the damage is even worse. Residents can no longer leave their homes unattended," she said.
Despite numerous complaints to local authorities, residents feel that little has been done to address the issue.
Clr Moyo emphasized the community's desperation:
"We are pleading for prompt intervention to safeguard our community from these aggressive animals. The stress and anxiety they are causing are immense."
Residents like Mr. Thamsanqa Ndlovu echoed the call for swift action, noting the potential health risks posed by the baboons.
"They can carry diseases and are a threat to our safety. We need effective measures to control their population," he said.
The community has demanded that authorities step in with effective solutions to manage the baboon population, prevent further property damage, and ensure the safety of residents.
With livelihoods at stake and anxiety mounting, residents hope for a swift resolution to restore normalcy in their neighborhood.
The baboons have caused significant destruction, including tearing apart roofing materials and damaging electronic devices. Residents also report that the animals aggressively prune unripe fruits from trees and discard them after a few bites. In some cases, the baboons attack broiler and layer chickens, eating into residents' livelihoods.
"They are a nuisance. They break into homes and gardens, leading to costly repairs. Something needs to be done urgently," said resident Mr. Nkosinathi Sibanda.
The animals have become increasingly bold, with reports of them targeting women and children, snatching food items as they return from local shops.
Ward 17 Councillor Sikhulekile Moyo expressed deep concern over the situation, highlighting its impact on daily life.
"Baboons are causing havoc in Pumula South. They have destroyed roofs, and with the recent rains, the damage is even worse. Residents can no longer leave their homes unattended," she said.
Despite numerous complaints to local authorities, residents feel that little has been done to address the issue.
Clr Moyo emphasized the community's desperation:
"We are pleading for prompt intervention to safeguard our community from these aggressive animals. The stress and anxiety they are causing are immense."
Residents like Mr. Thamsanqa Ndlovu echoed the call for swift action, noting the potential health risks posed by the baboons.
"They can carry diseases and are a threat to our safety. We need effective measures to control their population," he said.
The community has demanded that authorities step in with effective solutions to manage the baboon population, prevent further property damage, and ensure the safety of residents.
With livelihoods at stake and anxiety mounting, residents hope for a swift resolution to restore normalcy in their neighborhood.
Source - The Sunday Mail
