Hijacked buildings, expired food and drug use found during a joint CRUM and JMPD operation
Law enforcement teams uncovered alleged drug use, confiscated expired food from spaza shops and detained one undocumented individual during a city-led operation in Booysens.
The City of Johannesburg conducted a law enforcement operation in Booysens on May 11, targeting hijacked buildings and properties posing public safety and health risks.
The operation was led by the city’s CRUM unit and the JMPD.
Officials said teams entered properties that had been illegally occupied and stripped of their intended purpose.
Inside, they found conditions described as unacceptable, including individuals openly using nyaope on the premises.
Such spaces have become breeding grounds for crime and substance abuse.
During the sweep, enforcement teams also moved to local spaza shops where a large quantity of expired food was confiscated.
One individual was detained for failing to produce valid identification papers.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said the operation forms part of a broader effort to restore order in the city.
“We are stepping up action against illegal occupation and problem properties in Johannesburg. Our message is clear: we will not allow buildings to be hijacked and turned into hubs for crime. This is about protecting residents and reclaiming our communities,” said Fihla.
The city said it remains committed to restoring order and dignity in affected areas and will continue operations until Johannesburg is safe for all residents.
