The EMPD Northern Region officers, in collaboration with the Human Settlements Department, conducted an operation on May 12 at Portion 64 of Witfontein Farm near the Thembisa Licensing Station, where approximately 300 illegal structures were demolished.

According to EMPD media liaison officer Thabiso Makgato, the operation was carried out in line with a 2022 Johannesburg High Court order.

Makgato said building materials were also confiscated during the operation.

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“The operation was conducted in accordance with the 2022 Johannesburg High Court order, whereby applicants were ordered and directed to immediately remove the structures or shacks they had erected,” said Makgato.

He added that the applicants failed to comply with the order within the stipulated timeframe granted, and the EMPD was authorised to remove the structures or shacks.

The EMPD said it will continue to monitor the area.