Human Settlements Minister Tokyo Sexwale has welcomed the police crackdown on hijacked buildings in the Johannesburg inner city, and encouraged the South African Police Services to conduct similar raids in other urban areas.

“It is essential that law enforcement agencies act against lawlessness in the inner city, and in particular against those who illegally occupy buildings,” said Minister Sexwale.

“We congratulate the police on their action in Johannesburg this week, and would like to see an intensification of this process across the country,” said Minister Sexwale. “We must ensure there is no place to hide for building hijackers.”

This week’s police raids follow a call by Minister Sexwale on October 19 -- whilst opening a new R30-m rental project in central Johannesburg – for an increased focus on inner-city revitalization. In particular, he said, action needed to be taken against those illegally occupying buildings.

“We welcome the speedy response from police, and acknowledge the role they are playing in ensuring we provide safe and affordable accommodation for city dwellers. They are our number one partner in cleaning up the inner-city.

“Once their work is done, we can proceed with the redevelopment of these buildings, working in partnership with the private sector and financial institutions, to speed up the transformation of inner-city areas.”

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