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Landmark Victory: Joburg Building Owner Reclaims Property after Two Decades of Illegal Occupation

Published January 28, 2024
10 months ago

Johannesburg businessman, David Phahladira, can finally claim victory after a harrowing two-decade-long battle to reclaim his property, Claridge Court, from the grips of illegal occupiers. Following a combined effort from the Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) and the Hillbrow South African Police Service (SAPS), Phahladira regained control of the building that has eluded him for so many years.


The breakthrough came as a result of an operation on January 26, 2024, led by the JMPD’s newly instated Tactical Reaction Unit alongside Hillbrow SAPS, culminating in the arrest of two alleged hijackers. The operation was initiated under the guidance of the city's Group Forensics and Investigation Services unit. However, with the arrival of the police, some suspects managed to escape.


The recovery of Claridge Court marks a significant victory in the battle against property hijacking within Johannesburg's inner city, where the phenomenon has been rampant. Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, the City of Joburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety, has heralded the operation as a turning point and pledged to pursue other illegally seized buildings aggressively.


Allegations have emerged implicating Vermaak Attorneys and Jan Van De Bos, accusing them of colluding with the Masters of the Gauteng High Court to secure groundless court orders and receiving preferential treatment in court scheduling. Additionally, the deeds office has been accused of transferring property ownership without the consent or even the knowledge of the rightful owners.


According to Tshwaku, securing Claridge Court is only the beginning. A management committee will soon be established comprised of city representatives and the property owners to oversee the upcoming renovations and future management of the building.


The two individuals arrested during the operation are poised to appear before the Hillbrow Magistrate’s Court, facing charges related to their involvement in the illegal occupancy and exploitation of the building.


This successful recovery comes on the heels of a tragic incident last year when a fire ravaged the Usindiso Building, another property plagued by illegal occupation in the Joburg CBD. The disaster resulted in 77 fatalities and numerous injuries, highlighting the significant risks associated with neglected and unlawfully occupied buildings.


The city’s efforts to reclaim these buildings aim to improve safety and encourage lawful property management practices in the Johannesburg central business district. This commitment to stamping out the scourge of building hijacking demonstrates a dedication to restoring order and upholding property rights in the city.



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