What to do with illegal squatters
Here's what to do when you have illegal settlers on your property.
THE civil rights organisation, AfriForum, issued a document with guidelines to communities on how to act against squatters who occupy property illegally.
The organisation said it receives complaints weekly about illegal occupation of land.
“It is important that communities are informed of land rights and about the steps they can take to protect these rights,” said Ian Cameron, an organiser for AfriForum.
The organisation believes it is important that landowners act immediately when their property is occupied. Cameron explained that settlers have to be informed immediately that they are on the property illegally and that they have to vacate the premises. It is also imperative that a sworn statement be taken at the local police station and that the police be asked to remove the squatters.
AfriForum also advised, complaints may be submitted to the director of Public Prosecutions if the police do not act in accordance with the relevant regulations.
“We want to encourage communities to retain a professional approach and warn people not to become aggressive,” said Cameron.
