Red Ants clear illegally occupied land
We are unapologetic about land invasions. We will continue to demolish any structure that is erected illegally.
LYDENBURG – Thaba Chweu Local Municipality (TCLM) brought out the big guns on Friday when the Red Ants demolished several illegal stands and structures in Extension 6.
The Red Ants are hired by either the government or private property owners to evict people and demolish illegally occupied houses. They were accompanied by the police to ensure no incidents occurred. The municipality has in the past sent out stern warnings about illegal land occupation, but this is the first time it has taken serious action.
Some of those who built the structures on the land in Extension 6 told the newspaper that the municipality’s actions were unlawful. “We have certificates that allow us to build on this land. We were supposed to receive RDP houses that were going to be built here, but instead councillors of TCLM are selling these houses.”
The dwellers said they will be seeking help from the Department of Human Settlements in Mbombela. In a statement, Thaba Chweu stated that it is a lawful institution, “therefore, it is not going to allow any lawless behaviour under its jurisdictions. We are unapologetic about land invasions. We will continue to demolish any structure that is erected illegally. We request the community of TCLM and surrounding areas to refrain from these illegal activities. It is against the law to occupy government properties without authorisation and proper procedures.”
The municipality calls for all law-abiding citizens to cooperate. “This is the result of illegal occupation of land. We are guided by the constitution and by-laws to act on this barbaric behaviour. We will continue to demolish any illegal structures on municipal land.”
