Sduduzo Dludla
In a bold move to reclaim City of Johannesburg-owned properties and enforce bylaws, the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Cllr Mlungisi Mabaso, led a multi-agency operation targeting illegally occupied commercial spaces in Hillbrow.
The operation, conducted in collaboration with the Johannesburg Social Housing Company (JOSHCO), Environmental Health, Single Law Enforcement, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department, Group Forensic and Investigation Services, and other departments, focused on shops and buildings operating without valid leases or trading permits.
“These shops are operating illegally. They lack the necessary documentation and were issued eviction notices as far back as three months ago. Yet, they continue to ignore the law, with some occupants refusing outright to vacate,” said Cllr Mabaso.
The buildings, located in the lower Hillbrow area, are owned by JOSHCO and were developed as part of the City’s mixed-use housing and commercial strategy. Leases for many of the affected tenants were terminated as early as 2021 due to non-compliance with the terms of their lease agreements.
Since then, criminal syndicates have exploited the properties by unlawfully subletting them to foreigners while defaulting on rental payments. The area has further been compromised by the unauthorised use of nearby spaces by cross-border buses operating without City approval, worsening congestion and lawlessness.
“We are being held hostage by crime. As residents living in the flats above these shops, all we want is peace and safety. If the buses are removed and these illegal shops shut down, this area can finally return to normal,” said local resident Sabelo Mkhwanazi.
JOSHCO has confirmed that leases will not be renewed for foreign nationals occupying the properties illegally. Once the affected units are renovated, they will be made available to law-abiding, compliant business operators. This is in line with JOSHCO’s broader objective to revitalise economic spaces within its buildings and provide residents with accessible, formal retail services.
This operation supports the City of Johannesburg’s wider strategy to eliminate bad buildings, increase bylaw enforcement, and strengthen revenue collection through improved property management.
“This raid is a determined step towards restoring law and order in our City. We acknowledge that sustained impact will require ongoing vigilance and community cooperation. We urge residents and officials alike to report unlawful activity wherever it occurs. Together, we can reclaim our City,” concluded Mabaso.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
