City officials have arrested a suspect linked to the illegal occupation and modification of a high-value property in Bryanston, marking an escalation in the municipality’s crackdown on hijacked buildings. The arrest followed a multi-disciplinary tactical operation led by City Manager Dr Floyd Brink at a premises on Grosvenor Road. Investigators secured three witness statements linking the suspect to the illicit collection of rentals. Authorities also seized a licensed firearm, ammunition, and two magazines during the raid.

“There is a critical need to address these issues for the sake of our community’s safety and the City’s financial sustainability,” Dr Brink said, noting that 17 additional properties in Wards 102 and 104 are currently under investigation for similar infringements.

The Bryanston property, valued at approximately R5.1 million, had been illegally retrofitted with makeshift rooms to house numerous occupants. Officials discovered that electricity and water services had been unlawfully reinstated after being disconnected years prior by the previous owner. The City confirmed significant arrears on the property’s service accounts.

While the suspect remains under police jurisdiction awaiting formal charges, the City is coordinating with Social Development and Human Settlements teams to manage the relocation of the current occupants.

Dr Brink warned that the municipality would intensify its “zero-tolerance” offensive against utility theft and property hijacking in the coming weeks. Residents have been urged to report suspicious property occupations to the authorities as the City seeks to restore the integrity of its urban infrastructure.

SOURCED FROM THE CITY’S WEBSITE.