GTM demolishes 65 illegal homes in Tzaneen
GTM has demolished 65 illegal homes in Mokgolobotho after court action, citing safety, planning, and land rights concerns.
TZANEEN – The Greater Tzaneen Municipality (GTM) carried out the demolition of homes and structures illegally built on privately owned land in Mokgolobotho on Monday, September 15, following months of warnings and legal proceedings. The operation targeted dwellings constructed without approved building plans, land rights, or municipal consent.
The municipality confirmed that the land in question is privately owned and that no formal permission had been obtained for development.
Officials also emphasised that repeated attempts to engage with the affected residents had failed. Notices instructing residents to halt construction and vacate the land were issued, and municipal representatives met with community members to explain the legal consequences of unapproved building.
Despite these efforts, many residents continued construction, forcing the municipality to take legal action.
Read more: WATCH: Illegal houses demolished by Tzaneen Municipality in Mokgolobotho
“The GTM, acting on an order of the Limpopo High Court, carried out the demolition of structures illegally erected on Erf 1018, Dan Extension 2, Portions 25 and 28 of the Farm Mohlaba’s Location 567LT on Monday,” said Neville Ndlala, head of communication for GTM.
In total, the municipality removed 65 houses, 58 fenced-off stands with poles and wire, and 37 shacks.
This action followed a protracted legal process. An interim court order was first obtained in December 2022 but was opposed by Mogale Joseph Mokgoloboto.
A final court order was granted on June 12 this year. Attempts to block the demolition with a court interdict on August 20 were dismissed on August 29, clearing the way for the operation.
Municipal officials stressed that the land is earmarked for formal township development, with a layout already approved by the Municipal Planning Tribunal.
They noted that failure to act against illegal occupation poses significant risks, including uncontrolled settlement growth, disrupted service delivery, safety hazards for occupants and neighbours, and fraudulent land sales that exploit unsuspecting buyers.
GTM emphasised that the demolitions were necessary to uphold property rights, enforce land-use regulations, and maintain orderly community planning.
The municipality urged prospective property buyers to verify ownership before making any purchase to prevent unlawful occupation and fraudulent transactions.
While GTM expressed sympathy for those affected, it reiterated that repeated warnings and legal notices left residents with no choice but to face the consequences. The municipality also reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring other areas suspected of illegal development to ensure that land management remains orderly, lawful, and safe.
The demolitions have sparked tension in the area, with residents appealing for humanitarian assistance and clarity on their future.
GTM, however, emphasised that enforcement of the law is essential for protecting legitimate landowners, ensuring community safety, and safeguarding orderly urban development.
