Illegal evictions becoming a problem in Westbury

Many families in Westside have suffered the disadvantage of being evicted or thrown out of their homes without notice.

According to the constitution, an eviction where homelessness will be become a possibility, municipalities should join in as necessary parties to the legal processes for eviction.

The purpose of this is so that the municipality can investigate and present the court with a report dealing with: the potential impact of the eviction on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.

Also to assess the impact on the disabled and households headed by women.

Chairperson for Corporate and Shared Services at the Metro Centre in Braamfontein, Cathy Seefort said evictions have become a concern in the community.

“People pose as council officials and evict residents from their flats and homes.

“This is illegal because no community organisation is allowed to evict, only housing officials with a court order from the court itself has the right to do so,” said Seefort.

Fred Marie a resident from Westbury has also been evicted from his house.

“They came to my house and said they are from the council.

“They also explained that because my brother has his own flat and myself, that we should stay together.

“I refused and they threw me out of my flat and locked the gates with their own locks,” said Marie.

Another resident, Marihanna Lombard was given notice and even though the place does not belong to her, she had to move out but does not have a place to live now.

“My sons are living on the streets and I am struggling to even provide for them.

“I have been on waiting lists at housing but still struggle to get a place and now I have to live by my relatives,” said Lombard

Seefort further stated that people should use the housing office facilities to report such cases.

“People that are caught in this position should not be hesitant to report these cases.

“If it was not done legally then something should be done about it,” said Seefort.

@gmaster34