Two suspects were arrested on April 8 by the members of the Hawks for illegally selling a City-owned stand for R7 000 in Eikenhof also known as Jackson City.
Police are also hot on the heels of a third suspect who is allegedly working for the City.
Lucky Sindane, spokesperson for Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS), received a complaint from the head of group legal and contracts about the illegal sale of land belonging to the City.
The land was previously invaded and the City obtained a court order against the invasion, allocation and erecting of illegal structures in June 2020. The order was further extended to November 2020.
“GFIS worked with the Hawks and the JMPD set up a sting operation. The suspects were approached by the undercover officials and they agreed to sell the stand for R7 000,” said Sindane.
“The suspects requested a deposit of R4 500 before handing over the stand to the undercover officials.
“As soon as the money was paid into a certain bank account, which was provided by the suspects, they were both nailed. The City is appealing to anyone who might have information on the illegal sale of stands and RDP houses to come forward. The information will assist our law enforcement agencies as they continue to investigate these cases throughout the City.
“Corruption has no place in the City. We will work tirelessly and in collaboration with institutions such as the Hawks, SAPS and all other institutions within the criminal justice system to ensure that the residents of Johannesburg receive the quality services they deserve,” he said.
The City encourages people to report any fraud and corruption activities through the 24-hour tip-off hotline 0800 002 587 or email whistle@joburg.org.za or visit GFIS offices situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein.
