Ekurhuleni cracks down on hijacked buildings following court ruling

The City of Ekurhuleni has reaffirmed its commitment to lawful governance, vowing to act decisively against the hijacking of municipal buildings across the metro.

Addressing members of the media at the Germiston municipal headquarters, Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza said the city would not allow lawlessness to take root through the illegal occupation of properties.

His comments follow the awarding of additional court orders that now allow the city to proceed with evictions at buildings that are unlawfully occupied.

Xhakaza said the enforcement of court orders was a necessary step to protect public assets and ensure that municipal buildings are used for their intended purpose in the interests of residents.

During the briefing, the mayor also welcomed improvements in the city’s financial performance. According to the City of Ekurhuleni, revenue collection for the second quarter rose to 81.90%, compared with a target of 90%.

Xhakaza said the improved payment levels were encouraging and would contribute to faster and more effective service delivery across the metro.

The executive mayor further provided an update on the recent flooding incident involving the missing MMC Mngwevu.

He confirmed that individuals who were with the MMC at the time of the incident have been identified as residents from the Springs area.

The city said the sole survivor has since been medically cleared and is expected to return to South Africa.

The City of Ekurhuleni reiterated that it remains focused on upholding the rule of law, strengthening accountability and maintaining transparent communication with residents.