High Court rules against Lawley ‘land invaders’
The High Court in Johannesburg has granted the City of Johannesburg permission to continue with the demolition of illegal shacks in Lawley.
Residents of the Kokotela informal settlement took to the streets on Sunday to protest against the decision to evict them from the area.
READ: Makhubo visits Lawley, 5 nabbed for ‘land invasion’
The notorious Red Ants demolished more than 80 shacks last week.
The residents subsequently turned to the courts, but both applications to halt the evictions were dismissed.
Joburg mayoral spokesperson Mlimandlela Ndamase says while the city is opposed to evictions, it will not allow residents to erect illegal structures.
“The mayor has reiterated the city’s commitment to providing shelter and settlements for the homeless within the city and providing affordable, social housing into communities in need.
“The city has emphasised that it is not in support of evictions and that it will continue to curb illegal invasions taking place currently during this period."
At least seven suspects were arrested in connection with the illegal occupation of land following Mayor Geoff Makhubo’s visit to the area on Monday.