VANDERBIJPARK – The Martinus Pretorius flats in Einstein street have transformed into a ticking time bomb, as relentless looting and plunder continue to erode its structural integrity.

A destructive fire on April 3, 2023 destroyed the building, leaving it in ruins.

However, the true catastrophe is unfolding as scavengers are continuously stripping the building of its remaining valuable materials. After the fire, even the steel and copper components of the Martinus Pretorius Building were stolen.

Now, a new group of vandals, driven by desperation and addiction, are systematically taking apart the building, brick by brick, with the intention of selling these stolen materials for quick money.

Sedibeng Ster visited the building on October 5 and interviewed residents and concerned citizens who are puzzled by the lack of decisive action from city authorities.

Mbongeni Zondo expressed his frustration, stating that despite their repeated pleas for help, the building continues to deteriorate, and it is getting closer to a potentially disastrous collapse.

He mentioned that they witness people removing bricks from the remaining walls of the building on a daily basis.
One of the vandals, who preferred to remain anonymous, mentioned that they sell loads of bricks to anyone willing to buy them, charging R300 for a van filled with partially used bricks. If someone wants full bricks, the price is even higher, starting at a minimum of R 500.

Emfuleni Local Municipality’s spokesman, Makhosonke Sangweni, said the building doesn’t belong to the municipality, however the owner will be traced.
“When the owner is found, we as the municipality will then sanction him with a notice to demolish the building or refurbish it,” he said