In a bid to address the ongoing land invasion crisis gripping Lourierpark and other areas within the Mangaung Metro Municipality (MMM), authorities have taken decisive action to implement a court order aimed at curbing illegal settlements.
Over the past week, open spaces in Lourierpark have been occupied by members of the community who claim they have waited too long for settlement. This contentious issue has sparked tensions between residents and municipal authorities.
According to Qondile Khedama, spokesperson for the Mangaung Metro Municipality, a court order has been obtained to compel the city, the sheriff of the court, and the South African Police Services (SAPS) to take action. Khedama emphasized that the court order mandates the removal of only incomplete and unoccupied structures erected illegally in the area.
"As part of the implementation of the court order, various stakeholders including MMM Law Enforcement, SAPS, and the Red Ants have commenced demolishing the illegal structures," stated Khedama.
He underscored the strain that land invasions place on municipal resources, diverting attention and funds away from essential service delivery programs. Khedama urged those involved in land invasion activities to cooperate with the municipality and cease illegal actions. He acknowledged the backlog in site allocations but assured residents that efforts were underway to expedite the process and settle those on the allocation list.
"While we acknowledge the presence of pockets of land invasion within our jurisdiction, including in Phahameng (Bloemfontein), we want to assure law-abiding residents of Mangaung that these illegal activities will not be tolerated," Khedama affirmed. "Bold steps will be taken to halt such activities."
The implementation of the court order represents a significant step by authorities to address the complex issue of land invasion in Lourierpark and other affected areas. However, the situation underscores the broader challenges facing municipalities in South Africa in balancing the needs of communities with the preservation of property rights and the rule of law.
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