Ekurhuleni Human Settlements Dept: Germiston flats evictions only start of similar operations

JOHANNESBURG - The Department of Human Settlements in Ekurhuleni said the eviction of illegal occupants from a block of flats in Pharoe Park was only the beginning of similar operations to be conducted across the city.

MMC Kgopelo Hollo said the department had identified five residential complexes that had also cost the municipality millions in lost revenue.

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Hollo, who was overseeing the final removal of tenants in the area on Wednesday, said the city was closing in on areas, including Airport Park and Delville.

It's been a long two days for tenants who used to occupy four apartment blocks in Pharoe Park, Germiston, as they gathered the last of their belongings, transporting them to a local community hall and some to close relatives for safekeeping.

As both community and city officials try to find solutions for those who have found themselves completely stranded after being evicted, the Department of Human Settlements has made it clear that it was zeroing in on more problematic apartment accommodations.

"I've got five complexes. Out of these five, only one complex I'm happy with, which is Chris Hani. We are collecting about 90% revenue. Delville, Airport Park, I'm coming. Airport Park it's worse – they don't pay," said MMC Kgopelo Hollo.

He reiterated the call to non-paying occupants to find ways to move before they found themselves in a similar situation as residents in Pharoe Park.