The Gauteng Department of Local Government Housing’s Fraud and Anti Corruption Unit and SAPS’ Hawks have arrested three more suspects in the illegal selling of land in Lenasia. The three suspects were arrested on Friday following an ongoing investigation by the Hawks and the department.
This follows the arrest of two other suspects who were arrested in September last year. The suspects appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate court today and their next court appearance will be on 21 June 2011.
Local Government and Housing MEC Humphrey Mmemezi said the arrest of the three more suspects should indicate our stance against corrupt people. “We will stop at nothing until we get all those who are involved behind bars. We are fiercely dealing with corruption in the housing sector, “said Mmemezi.
It is alleged that the men sold land that was earmarked for housing developments to unsuspecting residents in the area. They would fabricate fake title deeds and give them out as proof of ownership
MEC Mmemezi said the department wants to deal with all criminal elements that continue to hamper the progress of service delivery. “We can’t allow people who are hell bent on trying to sell and invade government land unattended. Now we have go to the courts to acquire our land back and this exercise is very costly and time consuming, all to the disadvantage of our people who need houses desperately, “ said MEC Mmemezi.
Mmemezi also cautioned against land invasion which is becoming a problem in the province. “People will be removed immediately if they try to invade government land so that we can avoid the process of going to courts. We are upping our game in fighting all these crimes,” said Mmemezi.
MEC Mmemezi further condemned politicians who incite the public to engage in violent protests and in the process destroy public properties. Such leaders will also be brought to book.
For further information contact:
Motsamai Motlhaolwa
Cell: 079 897 2240
