Since then, the municipality has carried out evictions and the removal of structures erected illegally by invaders. MLM MMC for Development and Planning Mokete Motsamai believes that these invasions are led by a Syndicate operating in the province.
“The people invading this properties are from outside Midvaal with most coming from Johannesburg South and others coming from as far as Tembisa. We believe this is part of the syndicate currently operating in Gauteng.”
Motsamai said that the invaders had mostly succeeded in the South of Johannesburg and now see Midvaal as a natural extension of the South of Johannesburg.
“The Municipality has been working with SAPS, JMPD, Red Ants, Savanna City Development and Base 5 Security to demolish the structures within 24 hours as and when they are erected. Demolitions happen every week as the invaders are persistent and set up new shacks after every demolition.”
Motsamai condemns the invasions in the strongest possible terms, urging the SAPS to make imminent arrests as invasions are a criminal offence.
Talking about the housing backlog, Motsamai said that the Municipality was working with the Gauteng Department of Human Settlements to ensure those who qualify for housing opportunities and approved for these programs are allocated.
“Property owners are advised to fence their properties, put signages that the property is private and trespassers will be prosecuted and open cases with SAPS as soon as there are invasions.
“We will continue to monitor the affected areas and call on the communities to also inform us of this invasions by Calling Sylvia on 016 360 7571.”
