The Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (DID), has
issued a stern warning to those illegally occupying state properties,
saying it would embark on more blitzes to verify ownership and ensure
adherence to lease agreements.
“We want to make it clear to those who are occupying government
houses without leases that their actions are illegal and we will bring
them to task. What is of even greater concern is that some of these
illegal occupiers are sub-letting to poor residents but are not paying for
the use of those properties,” said MEC Bheki Nkosi.
Last week the DID – in partnership with Ekurhuleni Metro Police, Home
Affairs and the South African Police Service (SAPS) – raided some forty properties on 14th and 15th Avenues in Boksburg North following a
question that was raised in the Gauteng Legislature on the properties.
The Metro also provided its health and electricity inspectors to check for
any health hazards and illegal connections.
“We found that several of the occupiers had no lease agreements with
the DID and some had even erected shacks and made unapproved
alterations to the properties. The Property Management Unit has made
recommendations that those without lease agreements be removed
from the properties or enter into market-related rentals with the DID.
Those who have breached the lease agreements such as making illegal
alterations are at risk of having their leases terminated immediately,”
said spokesperson for DID, Phil Motshwaedi.
Other irregularities concerning the properties included the harbouring of
illegal immigrants - who were swiftly taken into custody by the police –
and sub-letting the properties. One property was found to have been
used for drugs and was immediately sealed and a security officer
posted. In total, twelve of the 40 houses inspected on the two streets
were found to have some irregularity, forcing the DID to seal the houses
and post security at the properties.
The DID has called on Gauteng residents to report any illegal activity
happening on its properties by calling the department on 011 355 5000
and reporting concerns to the Property Management Unit.
Enquiries:
Philemon Motshwaedi
Cell: 083 648 6870
Crack Down on illegal occupiers of Gauteng properties
Province
