Authorities in Johannesburg raided three properties in Randburg on Wednesday, targeting buildings with significant municipal debt and reported by-law infringements. The actions resulted in the arrest of six foreign nationals and renewed calls for amendments to the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act (PIE Act).
Property ‘uninhabitable’
The most severely affected property, a block of apartments in Windsor East, was found to be “hijacked” by both South Africans and foreign nationals allegedly in the country illegally. The property owes the City of Johannesburg R4 million in unpaid water, electricity, and rates. City officials observed widespread health, safety, and by-law violations and are seeking a declaration to have the property deemed uninhabitable, which would allow for an evacuation order.
Five Congolese men and one Congolese woman were arrested at the Windsor East property. At a separate location, authorities disconnected electricity to a property after discovering an unregistered meter with City Power. A third property was visited following complaints from community members regarding security concerns. City enforcement teams are attempting to locate the registered owner of that abandoned property.
PIE Act amendments sought
Lorato Mathopa, a member of the portfolio committee on home affairs and representing the Patriotic Alliance, has called for a parliamentary debate on amending the PIE Act. Mathopa stated that the legislation is being abused by “slumlords, criminal syndicates and delinquent tenants.”
According to Mathopa, criminal groups are illegally occupying buildings, collecting rent, and using the PIE Act to avoid eviction. She claims these groups exploit provisions of the Act by claiming potential homelessness, leading to lengthy and costly legal battles for property owners. The Patriotic Alliance intends to advocate for changes that would expedite evictions, clarify municipal authority, and review requirements for alternative accommodation.
Party spokesperson Steve Motale emphasized that the proposed amendments aim to strengthen the rule of law, not weaken constitutional protections. “A law that can be abused to entrench illegality ultimately fails both property owners and the genuinely vulnerable,” Motale stated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the city raids in Randburg?
The city raided three properties in Randburg as part of a multi-department blitz targeting delinquent properties reporting overcrowding, high municipal arrears, and other by-law infringements.
What is the Patriotic Alliance’s position on the PIE Act?
The Patriotic Alliance believes the PIE Act is being abused by criminal elements and is calling for amendments to speed up evictions and clarify municipal authority.
What is the city’s next step regarding the property in Windsor East?
The city’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services is applying for a declaration order to have the property declared uninhabitable, which would allow for an evacuation order.
As the city moves to address illegally occupied properties and the debate over the PIE Act intensifies, what role should community involvement play in finding sustainable solutions to housing and property rights challenges?
