Article by: Dumisane Dube
The Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) says the man who planted vegetables on a sidewalk has been issued with a R1500 fine.
Spokesperson Isaac Mahamba says the issue is not about vegetables but about the obstructed sidewalk, hence the fine.
“If we feel that maybe we might have a case against him we will take that docket to our municipal courts, and prosecutor and magistrate they will decide they will give us a way forward as to what steps should we to take at this stage we cannot pre-empt we will be guided by the courts of law.
Those are his fabrications and stories that he created on social media, our officers were very kind to him and explained to him the issues, the issue is not about vegetables it is about the obstructed sidewalk; hence he was issued with a fine,” he said
The man responsible for planting vegetables Djo BaNkuna also known as “Cabbage Bandit” said he will continue to plant vegetable crops if he sees an open space.
“The might of the law has been unleashed upon me and my cabbage patch. At around midday, five TMPD police cars convoyed to my place (two Van’s and three other cars). About 16 officers in total. I was served two documents: (1) with a Criminal Procedures Act Notice to Appear at the Wonderboom Municipal Court on 23/11/2021.
I am charged with: “intentionally interfere in any manner to the property of the Municipality” by planting cabbage outside at the corner (exact quote). (2) I am Issued the maximum fine of R1500 to be paid within 30 days and permanent criminal record for planting cabbage and onions. No by-law cited,” said Bankuna in a Facebook Post.
BaNkuna said he has been served with notice to appear before the Wonderboom Municipal Court on 23 November.
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