Residents of Palm Lakes Family Estate have been warned of renewed attempts to illegally occupy land adjacent to the estate.

Estate manager Ross Bishop confirmed that clearing activity, including grassland burns and the erection of gum poles, was reported near the estate’s northwestern boundary on June 23. The land is owned by Royal Palm Property Holdings (RPPH), the developers of Palm Lakes.

“Some areas of grassland had been burned or cleared, and a few gum poles had already been erected,” said Bishop. He noted previous attempts to build informal housing were halted following coordinated efforts by Saps and the The Royal Palms Homeowners Association (RPHOA).

RPHOA has pledged swift action and is working with RPPH and Umhlali Saps to halt further development. RPPH holds a High Court order against illegal occupation and has sought legal advice to enforce it.

iLembe district police spokesperson, Priya Nunkumar-Bukum, confirmed that Umhlali Saps Vispol members attended the scene.

“Police were informed that they had allegedly been sold portions of the land they were clearing, to build houses on the property,” she said.

Police instructed them to stop work and remove any materials or structures.

The estate’s private security teams are increasing patrols along the perimeter, and residents have been urged to report any suspicious activity.

RPHOA said it remains in regular contact with authorities to ensure the situation is resolved legally and promptly.

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