JOHANNESBURG – Residents in Lenasia South, south of Johannesburg, are disgruntled over land invasions and a crime spike in the area. They claim their concerns have fallen on deaf ears.
According to Melvin Kanabathy, a member of the Lenasia South Extension 2 Community Police Forum (CPF), land invasions began in 2015 and have continued unabated despite the community’s efforts to engage with their ward councillor.
Anti-land invasion unit
In August 2020, the City of Johannesburg launched an anti-land invasion unit to halt the illegal land invasions in the area. At the time, then-Mayor Cllr. Geoff Makhubo said over 1 500 patrollers would be deployed as part of the City’s strategy to combat land grabs.
However, Kanabathy claimed the situation has worsened and has affected the community. “We need somebody in the government today to assist us [because] we’re running out of options,” he said.
Illegal land occupation has been a significant challenge in South Africa, particularly in cities where homelessness is rife. Frustration at the slow land reform programme has also contributed to the spate of illegal land occupation in recent years.
Land invasion syndicates
Gauteng MEC for Human Settlements Lebogang Maile said the widespread land invasions in Johannesburg South are orchestrated by syndicates in cahoots with officials, and in some instances, police officers.
“There are syndicates who are making money out of the desperation of our people. It is alleged that the syndicate has connections and is working with some government officials and in some instances police officers. It’s a serious concern,” said Maile.
In Lenasia, Kanabathy alleged, certain individuals charge upward of R7 000 for pieces of land to be allocated for settlement.
Crime fears
Another resident Kevashni Kolander, claims residents live in fear as crime has increased since the illegal settlement was established. She said locals are mobilising to secure the area.
