On Monday, June 9, the City of Mbombela’s (CoM) by-law enforcement initiated the removal of vagrants who were occupying municipal land illegally.

According to the CoM’s spokesperson, Joseph Ngala, by-law enforcement responded after residents had complained to the White River Rate Payers Association (WRRPA) and ward councillor, Rowan Torr, about vagrants occupying municipal land at Tom Lawrence Street.

The situation was initially addressed in mid-May and the offenders were removed, but soon returned.

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“The city’s law enforcement will continue to monitor the space to make sure it is safe. We are going to do a random check to see if they are back, since it’s our responsibility to ensure that people don’t build on municipal land illegally. We also encourage active citizenry and appreciate it when communities take pride in their city and remain alert for any illegal activities,” he said.

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The chairperson of the WRRPA, Johan Haymans, said: “It was no longer safe for the residents, especially walking at night. The people welcome the fact that law enforcement came out to clear the area. Since it was first reported, the illegal occupation has grown to more than 12 individuals, who harass pedestrians on a daily basis. If law enforcement had acted when it was reported, the situation would not have escalated this far. White River residents are thankful that the law was eventually enforced. Thank you to all who contributed towards this outcome.”

One of the residents who complained about the area, Bruce Macaulay, said: “We, as White River residents, are most thankful to the CoM for enforcing the by-laws and getting rid of the group of illegal settlers in the middle of town. We have reported it privately as well as via the schools, WRRPA, and also local councillors. The swift response from the municipality is welcomed, and we hope that the illegal settlers will be dealt with once they come back.”