MOSSEL BAY NEWS - In February alone, 41 illegal structures were removed and building material impounded by municipal Law Enforcement in Mossel Bay.
From the beginning of October last year to the end of February, almost 100 structures were removed.
Mossel Bay Municipality said that, like other towns and metros in South Africa, Mossel Bay too deals with the challenge of illegal land invasion and occupation, specifically the construction of illegal structures.
"It is to be noted that Mossel Bay is ranked among the top semigration destinations not only on the Garden Route, but also in the Western Cape. This inadvertently makes it a sought-after place of residence for all citizens from all walks of life."
The municipality said that in June 2022 it trained a response unit to become a force multiplier in the municipality's efforts to grow community safety.
"Members of the unit have been deployed in the Law Enforcement Department and currently, they are playing a vital role in curbing illegal land invasion and occupation.
"The unit performs daily vehicle as well as foot patrols to reach areas that are difficult to access. In December 2023, 722 hours were spent patrolling.
"During these patrols, the focus is on identifying areas being cleared for construction and building activities taking place.
"When perpetrators are seen participating in these activities, they are instructed to desist immediately. Illegal, unoccupied structures that are found are then broken down by the municipality's contractor, the Red Ants, and all material used is impounded."
According to the municipality the Red Ants also do daily patrols, scouting for illegal land invasion and occupation and provide hourly feedback to the municipality.
"Once any building activity or unoccupied structures are identified, the Law Enforcement and Response units are requested to investigate."
To report any illegal land invasion and occupation, call the municipality on 044 606 5000 (all hours), or municipal law enforcement directly on 044 606 5204.
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