A large-scale demolition operation is currently underway in the Plastic City informal settlement, with multiple stakeholders on site.

The operation, which started yesterday (Tuesday), saw personal belongings such as furniture, clothes and other items first moved out of shacks for residents to collect later.

A tractor-loader-backhoe (TLB) was used to topple the shacks, which were then set on fire.

In between all the chaos and noise, scared animals were collected by the SPCA. Some animals were willingly surrendered to the society by their owners.

Some residents were seen carrying bushels and sacks on their shoulders out of the informal settlement, only taking what they could carry, while others made phone calls to family or friends to help them move their belongings.

The CoE previously stated that affected South African households will be accommodated in the Mngongo informal settlement (Location Road).

During the demolition, suspected stolen items were found, including a pellet gun. Walking through the remains of the settlement, the Herald observed holes and trenches, and illegal mining equipment.

It is alleged that some illegal mining activity occurred inside the shacks. Official comment is awaited from the CoE.

ALSO CHECK: Road through Plastic City closed, motorists forced to detour