Unsafe buildings and illegal structures were demolished in Kya Sands Ward 115, including a spaza shop that was under construction during a recent multidisciplinary operation.
The operation was conducted by the Public Safety Department and other stakeholders, including Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), SAPS, and CRUM Region E.
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The operation focused on land monitoring, by-law enforcement, and ensuring compliance with city regulations to prevent illegal occupation and safeguard municipal land. It also focused on protecting residents and restoring order in the community.
The operation was carried out successfully, with officers demolishing several illegal structures. All role players worked together to ensure calm and safety throughout.
Ward 115 councillor Mark van der Merwe said that, unfortunately, as councillors, they are not involved in SAPS and JMPD operations.
“Some people have been there for over 25 years. There is an ongoing but stalled project to replace housing for South Africans at the provincial level, as the land is provincial.”
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He added that over the past years, there has been an influx of illegal foreigners building illegal structures.
Authorities clarified that the effort is part of an ongoing enforcement campaign, which includes frequent briefings to identify and manage problem locations.
It served as a reminder that removing unlawful construction sites is only one aspect of a much wider challenge: revitalising the sites while balancing safety, compassion, and community needs.
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