The mystery as to who ordered the removal of squatters from the Mathombo informal settlement next to Cradlestone Mall was finally solved when the Mogale City Local Municipality answered three questions that the News had sent to them.

Also read: Removal leaves families split up and destitute

Here are the questions and the City’s Human Settlements Manager Tefo Kelebonye responses to them verbatim:

1. Who gave the instruction for the relocation?

The relocation is carried out by the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport. They obtained a court order for the relocation of the informal settlement.

2. How can these people be moved in winter to an area with no shelter, water, or even temporary sanitation?

Water and temporary sanitation are being provided at the new site.

3. What is the way forward?

Relocation is ongoing and is anticipated to be completed by end of this week.

This came after a furore among residents, activists, and community leaders over the fact that on the first day of the relocation (June 20) residents were left out in the winter cold without shelter, food or sanitation.