JMPD responds to valley vagrant complaints
JMPD says they are looking into complaints regarding illegal occupiers of the valley next to Okavongo Drive.
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) says removing illegal occupiers of land is not a simple task.
In replying to questions regarding the illegal occupiers of the valley adjacent to Okavongo Drive in Wilro Park, JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla says he acknowledges receipt of the complaints detailing illegal occupation, the burning of various materials causing smoke and odour, excessive noise, and the suspected presence of stolen municipal dustbins at a makeshift property.
Fihla says JMPD officers visited the valley and found no individuals actively occupying the space upon arrival; however, evidence suggesting ongoing presence and activity was observed.
“Following this initial assessment, it has been determined that a more comprehensive approach is required,” he says.
“The JMPD, in collaboration with other departments such as Environmental Health and Social Development, and Pikitup will need to conduct a follow-up operation, deploying sufficient personnel to effectively address the situation, identifying and enforcing specific bylaws related to illegal structures and public nuisances, which may include issuing notices for the removal of any erected structures, and investigating and acting upon any evidence of criminal activity, including the suspected theft of municipal property.”
Fihla stresses that the JMPD, like any law enforcement agency in South Africa, must follow a strict legal process to remove illegal land occupiers, which is primarily governed by the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (PIE Act) of 1998.
