WATCH: Joburg south residents stands up against alleged land grabbing on Swartkoppies Road
Illegal building operation halted as safety fears grow over gas line in Southern Suburbs.
Community members in Kibler Park stopped an illegal structure from being built on Swartkoppies Road on August 17, citing serious safety risks and alleged land grabbing on City of Johannesburg property.
According to residents, an older woman believed to be a foreign national has been allegedly selling off portions of government and council land for illegal camps to be built.
She allegedly either sells the plots to people or collects rent.
The area in question contains a large gas servitude, clearly marked by white pillars, and any interference could result in a large-scale explosion that would endanger hundreds of Joburg South residents.
The concrete slab structure, which had been erected for occupation, was demolished by community members and the JMPD before it could be used.
Two JMPD officers who live in Kibler Park assisted not in their official capacity but as concerned residents.
After the demolition, JMPD contacted a truck to assist with the removal of the rubble left behind, as residents feared the individuals would return to rebuild as soon as law enforcement left.
The Klipriviersberg Civic Association has been tracking the alleged activity since 2023, with similar incidents reported in the Jackson informal settlement and Lehae areas.
Klipriviersberg Civic Association Chairman Hennie Els was at the demolition and warned that the problem is escalating.
“The lady involved in these land-grabbing and illegal building operations has already had success in the Lahae settlement and Jackson informal settlement. If the community and law enforcement don’t stop her, she will continue her illegal activity,” said Els.
“The Joburg South community is under attack and we need to stand up.”
The Civic Association said the land is COJ property and lies directly over a gas line servitude, placing the entire area in danger.
Residents are urged to report any approaches to buy a stand or be allocated a stand to the Civic Association.
Hennie Els can be contacted on WhatsApp 083 592 8765 or via email at ceo@deopr.co.za.
“As a community, let us unite and stand up against these illegal squatters,” Els said.
