Councillor denies benefiting from alleged illegal activities at informal settlement
Vino Reddy, Ward 93 councillor, has dismissed allegations linking him to an alleged unlawful landlord and private security operation on a Witkoppen Road property, describing the claims as damaging to his reputation.
Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy has strongly denied any involvement in, or prior knowledge of, alleged illegal activities taking place on a privately owned property turned informal settlement at the corner of Witkoppen Road and Winnie Mandela Drive in Fourways.
The area is known for its high levels of activity, with informal traders, taxi drivers parking along the roadside, car washes, and informal settlement structures.
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Reddy explained that the alleged activities involve an individual acting as an unlawful landlord on the property, charging rent to people staying there, with an elite private security company reportedly operating on the site.
He said he only became aware of these claims during a meeting with the Fourways Improvement District (FID), a non-profit organisation launched last year to address service delivery challenges, crime, and illegal trading in the area.
Reddy stated that the allegations are deeply damaging to his reputation, adding that it would be illogical for him to benefit from such activities, particularly as he has consistently advocated for the removal of illegal squatters and informal traders in the area, which fall under his oversight as ward councillor.
Reddy dismissed assertions allegedly made by a security company or guard linking him to the activities on the property.
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Reddy further stated that he has never endorsed or approved any activities on the site and has since taken steps to formally advise the property owners of the illegal nature of what is allegedly taking place there. “If it is getting out of hand, I would be left with no choice but to seek legal advice because this is damaging to my name.”
Reddy warned that individuals spreading what he described as false rumours and libellous claims could face legal consequences.
When asked for the name of the so-called security company for comment, Reddy said he is still trying to establish those responsible for it.
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