What began as a symbolic and hopeful Mandela Day morning for Ward 94 councillor David Foley quickly turned into a confrontation over urban tree protection and accountability.

Foley kicked off the day planting trees at both Fourways Gardens Estate and Fourways Mall, alongside Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ), part of a broader initiative to promote urban greening under the Mandela Day spirit of giving back, but, later that afternoon, while driving back with Fourways Review, Foley spotted something that brought the celebrations to a halt.

Read more: Fourways Gardens Estate plant 67 trees for 67 minutes of Mandela Day

Just nearby the estate, several individuals were cutting down trees. Concerned, Foley stopped his car and approached the group to clarify the legality of their actions.

What followed was a tense exchange between the councillor and the property owner, who claimed the trees were damaging infrastructure and lifting the tar from the road. Foley, however, made it clear that unauthorised tree removal, especially on public property, is illegal and could carry serious consequences. “This will be an example for many who are doing the same thing as him. You cannot cut down trees. You are breaking the law. That is the responsibility of JCPZ.”

JCPZ, still active in the area for Mandela Day, were swiftly informed. Known for their fierce advocacy of green spaces, officials reacted strongly, contacting the property owner directly and requesting a formal explanation.

Dr Joseph Ndou, an environmentalist from JCPZ, said a fine is now pending, and the matter will be thoroughly investigated.

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