By Doreen Mokgolo
Residents of an informal settlement in the middle of a soccer pitch in Tembisa, Ekurhuleni have once again been forced to find alternative accommodation.
Over 50 shacks built on local soccer fields were demolished by Ekurhuleni Metro Police on Monday morning, leaving desperate residents and their valuables soaking in the rain.
Last month, residents of Kopanong Section were shocked when they saw that the shacks were erected again after they were previously removed by the metro.
The occupants applied for a court order two months ago to prevent the metro from demolishing their shacks.
Metro spokesperson Zweli Dlamini confirmed that last month they filed a counterclaim for the eviction.
“We received an order which led to the eviction,” he said.
Angry resident, Maria Mhlongo, said the metro doesn’t care about the people.
“They destroyed some of my furniture and took away my building material. How can they carry out an eviction on such a rainy day. Where are we supposed to go with our children?” she asked.
“We are tired of being bullied by this government.
Community leader, Jackson Mlambo, said the metro promised that it would build houses for them by 2015.
“When we ask about the delay during public meetings we are given excuses,” he said.
“The metro was quick to respond to their removal but failed to build the houses.”
He said they decided to move in to put pressure on the metro.
“We are going to fight until we receive what is due to us,” he said.
EMPD spokesperson, Marie Mashishi, said they removed over 120 shacks following a court order received.
“We had to remove the occupants as that area is a soccer pitch and the land belongs to the metro.”
“The occupants knew that the land is used as a soccer pitch especially now during the festive season where tournaments are hosted,” she said.
Pictured above: Shacks erected on a soccer field being demolished
Image source: Supplied
