A High-level government delegation descended on Potchefstroom on Friday, April 17 as part of the ongoing Operation Bring Back (OBB), an initiative aimed at reclaiming illegally occupied state-owned properties across the North-West province.

The oversight visit was led by Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Sihle Zikalala, alongside North-West MEC for Public Works and Roads, Elizabeth Sempe Mokua. They were joined by the leadership of JB Marks Local Municipality, including Executive Mayor Cllr. Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele, Municipal Manager Kgomotso Kumbe, Speaker Ald. Moithoesi Rosy Dassie, MMC for Housing, Development and Planning Cllr. Adrë Lee-Rail Swarts, and MMC for Community Services Cllr. Mantwa Matilda Kasale.

The delegation conducted walkabouts and inspections at identified sites, focusing on properties that have been unlawfully occupied. The operation forms part of government’s broader efforts to reclaim public assets, strengthen governance, and ensure that state infrastructure is used for its intended purpose.

During the visit, officials confirmed that at least three undocumented Mozambican nationals were taken into custody by Home Affairs for verification after being found operating from one of the illegally occupied properties.

According to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, the North-West province currently has 43 illegally occupied state properties out of a portfolio of more than 2 000. Of these, 29 are subject to pending eviction processes.

One of the sites visited on Friday was a property in Grobler Street in Potchindustria, which has reportedly been occupied since 2010. The occupants had been using the premises for recycling activities.

Addressing the media during the visit, Executive Mayor Gaba Thithiba ka Qhele said the intervention was necessary to restore order and ensure compliance with the law.

“We are in Grobler Street, Potchindustria, where we are visiting one of the properties that has been taken over since 2010. The department followed the legal route and a lawful eviction was served. The property will be reallocated back to the South African Police Service for utilisation.”

He further urged residents to follow proper procedures when seeking access to state-owned land or buildings.

“We are updating the community that the issue of taking government properties without following due process is not correct. Residents must approach the relevant authorities to obtain approval for space,” he added.

Officials indicated that Operation Bring Back will be rolled out across other parts of the province as government intensifies efforts to safeguard public resources, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that state-owned infrastructure contributes to service delivery and economic development.

Look at the video here: (Video: JB Marks Local Municipality)