JMPD clears illegal settlers after long community push in Fourways
After months of community frustration, JMPD has finally cleared an illegal settlement at the Winnie Mandela and Witkoppen slip road, with residents and Ward 93 Cllr Vino Reddy welcoming the move to protect Fourways from further decline.
Fourways residents have expressed relief after the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) moved to clear an illegal settlement developing at the slip road off Winnie Mandela Drive and Witkoppen Road on July 10.
The removal follows a long-standing community battle, led by Better Fourways, a local non-profit supported by Ward 93 councillor Vino Reddy, Ward 94 councillor David Foley, local businesses, and residents, who previously raised concerns about the illegal occupation and its potential to contribute to urban decay in the area.
Better Fourways previously called on the community to donate funds to clean and fence the area to prevent further illegal occupation, with residents concerned that the area would become another Clay Oven informal settlement if left unchecked.
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Last year, and earlier this year, Fourways Review engaged with residents of the settlement, who had indicated they would not move without the city providing alternative housing.
Sphiwe Ntuli, spokesperson for the informal settlers, said: “We stay here because we don’t have places to go and are looking for jobs here in Fourways. We are not going to move without proper assistance for accommodation from the city. Staying here keeps us close to many places where we can try to work for money.”
Fourways Review has been trying to get hold of the residents following the operation, but to no avail.
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Reddy expressed his satisfaction with the JMPD’s intervention, stating that he had been requesting action since last year to address the illegal occupation and to ensure the area is secured for its intended use. “I am pleased that JMPD has finally taken action to protect the area and respond to community concerns. This has been a long process, and I thank residents for their patience and support.”
Fourways Review has attempted to contact JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla for comment since July 10, following up on July 11 and 14, but to no avail. More information will be provided once it becomes available.
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