Johannesburg mayor vows to intensify crackdown on illegal structures in CBD

The City of Johannesburg has intensified efforts to remove illegal structures and reclaim unlawfully occupied public spaces in parts of the inner city.

Speaking during an ongoing operation in the Johannesburg CBD, Executive Mayor Dada Morero said the city is committed to restoring order and ensuring residents can move freely and safely through affected areas.

“But we are acting, we are bringing order. This movement of people is now free,” said Morero.

ALSO READ: Diepkloof residents clash over use of City of Johannesburg land

According to the mayor, Small Street has already been cleared as part of the operation, while three nearby structures are being assessed to determine whether they comply with legal requirements before further action is taken.

Morero said the city plans to expand operations to other areas, including the Marble Hall precinct, but stressed that officials are ensuring teams are properly prepared before moving into additional blocks.

“So far, we have cleaned Small Street. We’re going to other blocks, but we must prepare the teams and everything thoroughly before we go in,” he said.

The mayor emphasised that the operation is not a once-off intervention, but part of a sustained campaign that will continue throughout the year.

He added that the JMPD will maintain a permanent presence in affected areas to prevent illegal structures from being rebuilt.

ALSO READ: City of Johannesburg takes service delivery outreach to Thulani and Doornkop

“We need JMPD teams that will be here throughout the year to ensure that no one takes advantage of our non-presence to try and rebuild the illegal structures,” Morero said.

The latest operation forms part of the city’s broader efforts to address lawlessness, overcrowding and illegal occupation in the Johannesburg inner city.