In a recent development that has sparked concern among residents of Huhudi, the Naledi Local Municipality has swiftly responded to reports of illegal occupation of land that was advertised for formal settlement and business purposes. The municipality’s action follows a series of events that unfolded after the initial advertisement of vacant serviced sites for residential and commercial use.

The municipality’s official statement, released via their Facebook page, outlines the sequence of events leading to the swift legal action taken against the illegal occupation:

1. Advertisement of Vacant Sites: On Wednesday, 17 April 2024, the Naledi Local Municipality advertised vacant serviced sites for residential and business purposes. This was in accordance with Resolution Number 324/2023.

2. High Demand for Tender Documents: The following day, Thursday 18 April 2024, the municipality’s Supply Chain Management Office was flooded with requests from community members interested in buying tender documents to bid for the advertised sites.

3. Illegal Occupation: However, on Friday 19 April, some members of the community resorted to illegal means by invading the advertised sites, despite the ongoing tender process by law-abiding residents who intended to build homes for their families.

4. Legal Action: In response to the illegal occupation, the Naledi Local Municipality took urgent legal action by approaching the Mmabatho High Court. A rule nisi was issued by the court, prohibiting individuals from illegally occupying the sites, erecting structures, or inciting others to do so.

5. Enforcement: The court order mandates the South African Police Service (SAPS) or duly appointed third parties to demolish any illegal structures erected on the sites and enforce compliance with the court order.

6. Accountability: The municipality has reiterated its stance on accountability, stating that employees who participated in the illegal occupation of municipal land will face consequences in line with the Disciplinary Code of Conduct.

7. Engagement with Housing Forum: The municipality acknowledged engagement with a group called Housing Forum but highlighted that some of their suggestions were unlawful and could potentially lead to acts of corruption and fraud.

8. Market Value and Affordability: Addressing concerns about affordability, the municipality emphasized that a scientific valuation process was undertaken to determine land prices, in adherence to legal requirements.

9. Criminal Elements: There are reports of criminal elements infiltrating groups advocating for housing concerns. The municipality urged residents to refrain from actions that could destabilize the community and disturb public peace.

The municipality’s statement serves as a reminder of the rule of law and the importance of following legal processes, particularly in matters concerning land acquisition and development. Residents are encouraged to abide by laws and bylaws governing local government and to participate in lawful processes to ensure fair and transparent access to land and housing opportunities.

The investigative unit of the municipality is actively gathering evidence related to the illegal occupation, including allegations of extortion, to address any acts of fraud and uphold the rule of law.

As this situation unfolds, the municipality urges cooperation from all residents to maintain order, peace, and compliance with legal procedures governing land acquisition and development.

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Side Note: The VIP Editor has, before the publication of this article, been threatened. We believe that this is because of certain individuals having sported The VIP NPO’s SkyVision8601 Drones Project assisting The VIP Team collect content for the now published article. The VIP Team would like to advise all our reader and follower to refrain from making public threats and the general threats. In the words of Naledi Local Municipality’s recent Statement, point number 21, allow The VIP Team to also “…wish … residentS a very nice weekend and May God bless Vryburg and its residents”

-The VIP Team

-Naledi Local Municipality