ELM requests special raids for hijacked buildings
SEDIBENG.- In a fight against illegal hijacking of buildings Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) has requested an intervention of the Provincial Police Commissioner and MEC for Public Safety.
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The municipality’s MMC for Finance and Revenue Cllr Hassan Mako has requested for special raids in hijacked buildings in Emfuleni.
In a letter addressed to Gauteng provincial police commissioner General Elias Mawela and MEC for Community Safety Faith Mazibuko, Mako said cites that the action is undertaken due to the fact that a number of lawful owners of buildings have approached the municipality for assistance as they can’t pay for services because they can’t collect rent and even worse, they can’t access their properties.
“Consequently, the municipality can’t be losing so much needed revenue because of stolen electricity and water.”
In the letter Mako says the municipality has tried to disconnect one building and the municipality’s staff was met with resistance from illegal occupants of the building, there by putting their lives at risk.
“We are writing to both of you because it has come to our attention that the local police are compromised because they either live in these properties or they are part of the syndicate by taking bribes.”