Seven suspects are expected to appear in the Jeppestown Magistrate’s Court today on charges for trespassing, malicious damage to property and contempt of court.
This comes after a sting operation was conducted through a collaborative effort between South African Police Service (SAPS), the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Service (GFIS) and the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
The seven suspects were arrested at the hijacked property in Cleveland, east of Johannesburg. The property was returned to the rightful owner.
It is alleged that the rightful owner bought the property in July 2017 from a deceased estate. The owner learned of people who had illegally occupied the property during the registration process.
The owner approached the High Court where an eviction order was granted in March 2018. The eviction was executed in September 2018 and security personnel were hired to guard the property. However, the suspects attacked the security personnel and forcefully moved back into the property.
The matter was reported to the SAPS and the GFIS; the JMPD was roped in to support the two entities with their expertise.
Ongoing efforts by Operation Buya Mthetho have seen a total of 37 properties that were previously in the hands of hijackers being handed back to the rightful owners.
This is an indication that the City is slowly winning the fight against hijacked properties. Criminals must know that they might run but there is no place for them to hide in Johannesburg. Operation Buya Mthetho will intensify efforts to rid the city of criminal elements disturbing the peace of residents.
I remain committed to my promise to residents that the rule of law must return to our communities so they may live, work and place in safe spaces.
I encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24hour tipoff hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the offices of GFIS situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein.
Cllr Herman Mashaba
Executive Mayor
City of Joburg
For further information, please contact
Lucky Sindane
Director: Strategic Stakeholder Management
Group Forensic and Investigation Services
Cell: 065 865 0696
Email: LuckySi@joburg.org.za
