ActionSA calls for action on hijacked buildings

ACTIONSA has written to Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, requesting provincial intervention under Section 139 of the Constitution, expressing concerns about the actions of City of Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety Mgcini Tshwaku in dealing with hijacked buildings.

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

The move comes amid an intensified citywide crackdown on unsafe and hijacked buildings, spearheaded by Tshwaku.

As part of the broader enforcement drive, the City of Johannesburg has so far inspected around 331 properties through coordinated multi-department operations aimed at restoring safety, order and the rule of law in the inner city.

The inspections target hijacked, abandoned, and non-compliant buildings long associated with crime, dangerous living conditions, and widespread illegal electricity connections.

ActionSA Johannesburg caucus leader Marcel Coutriers and Sarah Wissler, the party's whip and former chairperson of the Section 79 Public Safety Committee, said the party remains firmly opposed to hijacked buildings, criminal syndicates, illegal occupation, and the erosion of state authority in Johannesburg's inner city.