Page Content
Thirteen suspects are expected to appear in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court tomorrow, 13 December 2018, on charges of malicious damage to property and trespassing.
The group, who are suspected of hijacking properties, were arrested in the early hours of this Wednesday, 12 December 2018, following a raid at eight hijacked properties in Turffontein, south-east of Joburg.
The purpose of the raid was to execute warrant of arrests against property hijackers and trespassers at three properties including No 47 A Ferreira Street, No 106 Great Britain Street and No 103 Ferreira Street.
The operation was led by the City’s Group Forensic and Investigation Services Unit (GFIS) in conjunction with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
About 832 properties are confirmed to be hijacked in Johannesburg and 34 properties that were previously in the hands of hijackers have been handed back to the rightful owners as a result of Operation Buya Mthetho, which remains determined to ensuring that the rule of law returns to our communities.
“Criminals must know that they might run but there is no place for them to hide in Johannesburg. The rundown buildings across the city are an opportunity to convert them into affordable accommodation, social housing and affordable small business premises,” said City of Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor, Cllr Herman Mashaba.
He added that he was committed to getting to the bottom of the rot that has infested the inner city and make it a safe and inclusive place for our people to live work and play.
“I encourage people to report any fraud and corruption activities through our 24hour tipoff hotline 0800 002 587 or visit the offices of GFIS situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein,” said Mayor Mashaba.
