The City of Tshwane has launched a campaign against illegal land invasion that it says threatened development projects and community stability. As part of the campaign officials conduct site visits and implement measures to protect property owners while warning of legal consequences for unlawful settlers.

Illegal land occupations pose a serious threat to development and legal stability, the City of Tshwane has warned. The municipality cautioned that such invasions not only derail planned projects but also expose both occupants and rightful landowners to significant legal risks.

This comes after a site visit to Hoekplaats by MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, Kholofelo Morodi, amid growing concerns over illegal land occupations that have put many residents at risk of financial loss and displacement.

The visit is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to curb unlawful land invasions and safeguard the rights of lawful property owners.

Morodi urged affected residents and property owners to promptly report any illegal land occupations to the City of Tshwane.

“It is deeply concerning that individuals are unlawfully occupying land, which not only disrupts planned developments but also poses legal risks for both the occupants and rightful landowners. We strongly urge all residents to report any illegal land occupations to the City of Tshwane.

“Landowners must be cautious of individuals attempting to settle illegally on their property. We call on residents to work with us to ensure that land use remains lawful to protect their investments and community stability,” she said.

Previously, Pretoria News reported that a former councillor candidate was accused of illegally selling plots of land in Erasmia and Sunderland Ridge for R5,000 each.

The accused was a Republican Conference councillor candidate during the 2021 local government elections.

City of Tshwane MMC for Utility Services, Themba Fosi, previously stated that the councillor candidate was allegedly involved in the illicit sale of land near Centurion.

Fosi issued a stern warning, emphasising that the City is taking a firm stand against land invasions and has opened criminal charges against offenders.

He said the rate of land grabs in Erasmia and Sunderland Ridge has reached unprecedented levels.

Residents can report illegal occupations through the City’s Law Enforcement – Crime Prevention toll-free number at 012 358 7095/6 or contact the municipal offices for assistance.

Pretoria News

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za