The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the rule of law in matters relating to land use and urban management.
In a statement, the department said it has introduced strict measures to deal with the growing number of land invasions across the City of Johannesburg.
According to JMPD, a multi-disciplinary operation was successfully carried out on Tuesday morning in Ennerdale Extension 11 to remove illegal structures.
The operation involved a specialised team made up of the By-Laws Management Unit, Public Order Policing (POP), Operations Unit, K9 Unit and Tactical Response Unit.
During the operation, 50 illegal structures were demolished and building materials were removed without any resistance.
JMPD said the action followed a tense incident at the same site last week, where officers were allegedly violently attacked by a mob while carrying out their duties.
The department praised the officers involved in that earlier incident for what it described as a tactical retreat, saying their actions demonstrated restraint and professionalism.
JMPD said had officers retaliated, the situation could have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. Instead, their withdrawal helped prevent a major disaster.
With the increased presence of the Public Order Policing unit during Tuesday’s operation, the department said enforcement procedures were carried out properly while ensuring the safety of both officers and the community.
“The JMPD will not be deterred by acts of lawlessness. It is unacceptable for officers to be shot at while lawfully enforcing city bylaws. We urge the community to cooperate with law enforcement and resolve land and housing issues through legal means rather than resorting to violence,” the statement said.
The department added that it will continue monitoring Ennerdale Extension 11 and other identified hotspots to prevent the re-erection of illegal structures.