Authorities raid property as crackdown on illegal occupation intensifies
A residential property in the suburb of Houghton Estate was officially shut down on June 18, following a co-ordinated raid by municipal authorities. This is part of a broader clampdown by the City of Johannesburg on illegal land use and unlawful property occupation.
The operation was led by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD).
♦️Happening Now♦️
📍Houghton Estate Property Raid
The premises have been officially marked for closure, with the remaining residents being processed and either deported or held for legal proceedings.
The JMPD will maintain a monitoring presence to ensure no further illegal occupancy… pic.twitter.com/td7HQhpF3a
— COJ People's MMC Public Safety (@PublicSafetyMMC) June 18, 2025
According to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) of Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, the remaining occupants at the premises are either facing deportation or are being held for further legal proceedings.
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The premise has been set for full closure, and JMPD officers will maintain a visible presence to prevent any attempts at reoccupation.
City officials have not disclosed the total number of residents affected.
Speaking on behalf of the city, the MMC Tshwaku emphasised the importance of citizen involvement in identifying similar violations.
Read more: Local dad competes in Mr South Africa and advocates for orphans and vulnerable children
'We urge the public to play their part – spot illegal factories, unlawful property settlements, or major by-law infringements, and bring them to us,' said Tswaku.
The city has not yet confirmed what the future use of the Houghton Estate property will be, but monitoring will remain in place until the legal closure process is finalised.
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