Illegal structures removed during by-law enforcement operation
“It is unfortunate that most of the individuals, however, do not accept the assistance and cannot be forced to do so.”
The EMPD conducted a by-law operation in Brakpan recently with a focus on squatters and individuals illegally occupying open spaces.
The plight of homelessness in Brakpan was highlighted in last week’s edition of the Herald, ‘Sluipslapers is ‘n steen des aanstoots’.
“The community of Brakpan has seen a huge influx of individuals illegally occupying open spaces within our community and the amount of complaints being received by residents is alarming,” said Brandon Pretorius, DA councillor for Ward 97, who welcomed the operation.
“A concern and fact are that where these individuals find themselves, residents of the direct surrounding areas see a major increase in petty theft and a general rise in crime, especially theft of gate motors.”
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Pretorius explained that many of these individuals also participate in informal recycling, which means the areas they occupy and in which they operate is overwhelmed with waste.
“I encourage residents to immediately report any illegal structure and to not hesitate to do so,” he said.
“Noting that we are all human and that it is not easy to implement these operations, residents should be informed that before individuals are removed, alternative accommodation and help is always offered.
“It is unfortunate that most of the individuals, however, do not accept the assistance and cannot be forced to do so.
“I will along with the residents of Brakpan continue to fight for a clean and safe environment and keep on applying pressure to ensure consistent by-law enforcement.”
Residents can report illegal structures to 086 054 3000 or the local EMPD.
The areas that received attention during the operation were Talbot Street, the corner of Hamilton and Prince George avenues, the corner of Kingsway Avenue and Gordon Street and Power Street.
Illegal structures were removed and the areas were cleaned.
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Contact the newsroom by emailing: Thelma Koorts (editor) brakpanherald@caxton.co.za or Stacy Slatter (news editor) stacys@caxton.co.za
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