Hawks roped into eviction saga

The illegal evictions in Alexandra and River Park next to Lombardy East of residents alleged not to be the rightful owners of RDP houses is under investigation by the Hawks.

Incidents by a group called Dudula pile up in court as unresolved cases. This was said recently by Alex Police Station spokesperson Captain Stephen Malatji. “Arrests have been made and bail granted by the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court pending adjudication.”

Malatji’s assertion comes simultaneously with three other investigations by the City, the Public Protector jointly with the Human Rights Commission and the provincial government to ascertain the veracity of Dudula’s claims. His assertion also is against the blame that is hurled on the police for alleged inaction. “We should instead be noted for the arrests and court referrals.”

He urged for calm in anticipation of the outcome of the Hawks’ and other investigations and outcome of the court hearings so that justice can be seen and said to have prevailed. He urged victims of the evictions to avail themselves with required information rather than delay the process when they realise errors they could have committed like corrupt acquisition and occupation of the houses. Also, Malatji urged the department of housing to avail relevant information and dates on the allocation processes. This said in response to allegations that many occupants got the houses through fraudulent and corrupt means from former ARP officials who are subjects of the investigations.

Recently, Alex News highlighted the worrisome plight of a widowed mother-led family evicted from their rightful house despite possession of documents entitling them to the house. The experience has been traumatic to them, the children’s performance in class is said to have dropped to the concern of teachers and also worry by other leaders of the family’s plight with the anticipated rainy season. Meanwhile, the perpetrators have vowed to continue the evictions for as long as the government remains inept on the housing saga in the township. They also claimed to have been asked by residents of other townships with a similar challenge to help them use the same strategy.

Related Article: 

https://northeasterntribune.co.za/220663/city-of-joburg-to-conduct-audit-of-illegal-occupants-in-rdp-and-social-housing/