Squatters invade land at Harlequins
Bluff CPF chairperson, Andy Rossell said that poverty and drug abuse are a huge problem in the area and are related to the establishment and persistence of these illegal structures and criminal activities.
THE issue of land invasion on the Bluff has resurfaced after the Bluff CPF investigated reports of squatters along the banks of the canal that runs past the bottom field of Harlequins sports fields.
“During a street patrol we came across three structures which we have handed to the governmental department of land invasion to demolish. Land invasion demolished the camp last year, but it has since been rebuilt last month. We aren’t sure how many people are living there. We suspect that these squatters are involved in crime as there are empty handbags and household items discarded. Our reaction teams have been chasing house breakers across the valley. It is a challenge to apprehend as they are as they are not in possession of the stolen property when we approach them and discard stolen items when the chase begins. We normally find these items hidden in the bush as the guys return to collect their haul later,” said Bluff CPF chairperson, Andy Rossell.
Rossell said that poverty and drug abuse are a huge problem in the area and are related to the establishment and persistence of these illegal structures and criminal activities.The municipality needs to build shelters and provide jobs in order to rehabilitate them,” he said.
When asked for comment, Harlequins Sports Club confirmed that they are aware of the illegal structures and believe that the occupants are responsible for the break-ins and cable theft at the club.
The club committee expressed great dissent on the matter and how it is directly tarnishing the reputation of the sports facility. Report land invasion, squatters and slum houses to the Bluff CPF Facebook or Telegram group. Alternatively you can contact Andy Rossell on email andyrossell@mweb.co.za or call 083-254-0012.
DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics.
To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 694 6047
The South Coast Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?
Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
To receive our free newsletter click here
(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)
