Media statement
Cllr Themba Fosi
MMC for Utility Services and Regional Operations and Coordination
20 March 2024
“As a city committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting our community’s rights, we take decisive action against land invasion. In light of the encroachment in Erasmia, I have taken the necessary steps to open a legal case against the individuals responsible for the unlawful occupation. It is imperative that we safeguard the integrity of our land and ensure that such violations are swiftly addressed through proper legal channels.”
MMC Themba Fosi
Following a thorough inspection conducted yesterday at the back of Erasmia and Sunderland Ridge, it has come to our attention that the rate of land grabs has reached unprecedented levels. Today, we took decisive action by lodging a criminal case at the Erasmia Police Station against the individuals involved in the illegal invasion of land.
During the inspection conducted yesterday, it was revealed that stands in the area are illegally sold for approximately R5 000 by unscrupulous individuals looking to enrich themselves at the expense of our City and communities. Rampant land invasion not only poses a threat to neighbouring businesses and law-abiding residents, but also strains the City’s infrastructure, including water and electricity systems, as illegal occupants tap into these essential services.
The City unequivocally denounces such lawlessness and is committed to ensuring that those responsible for these illegal acts are held accountable for their actions. We welcome any arrests that may be made in connection with this matter. In addition to pursuing legal action against the land invaders, we have also filed a criminal case against the Republican Conference of Tshwane (RCT) councillor candidate allegedly involved in the illicit sale of land at the aforementioned value. Furthermore, we will be reaching out to Cllr Lex Middelberg, the leader of the RCT, to ensure that those responsible for the unauthorised sale of municipal and provincial land are brought to justice.
The impacts of these criminal activities on our City cannot be overstated. Rate-paying communities bear the brunt of such actions, as illegal land invaders exploit the City’s infrastructure, ultimately impeding service delivery.
We stand firm in our commitment to safeguarding the interests of our City and the law-abiding residents of Tshwane. The City will continue to work tirelessly to combat land invasion and uphold the rule of law.
Enquiries: Tsebo Majoro
(tseboma@tshwane.gov.za)
20 March 2024
