Operation Kunakisa, led by Acting Executive Mayor Kenny Kunene, took place in Randburg on July 5. The operation, which included the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and a private security company, targeted buildings hijacked by undocumented foreigners and properties using the city’s power supply illegally.

Read more: Tackling hijacked buildings and illegal foreigners
During the raid, seven buildings were visited, and shocking conditions were discovered, including a room used as both a kitchen and bedroom, with dozens of eggs being washed in a tub, and some rotten in the fridge. City Power officials revealed that one of the buildings owed R3.3m, due to unauthorised connections. Tenants claimed they had paid the property owner but were unaware of the illegal electricity usage.

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Kunene highlighted the serious issues associated with hijacked buildings, stating: “Our people, South Africans, are being trafficked. Young girls are being trafficked in these buildings that are hijacked… Drugs are being hidden and distributed from these hijacked buildings. Also, these hijacked buildings have got electricity, yet they are not paying.” An incident occurred during the raid when a JMPD officer was hit by an undocumented foreigner, leading to an arrest.

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Ext 9 resident Sarah Maluleka speaks out after her home was left in disarray when members of the anti-illegal immigration group stormed her property in Alexandra on July 4, 2025. Immigration Ext9

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MMC for Community Development, Tebogo Nkonkou emphasised the need for by-law enforcement, saying: “You can see here, these people, they’ve been breaching, stealing electricity. By doing that, they’re taking the services away from our people… This area in Windsor has been problematic for many, many, many years. So, we promised our residents that we’re going to change and enforce the by-laws, and make sure that each and every one, our residents, they live in peace and harmony.”

The operation was deemed a success, with Kunene expressing gratitude for community co-operation. The operation is set to continue on July 8, his last day as acting executive mayor.

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