Authorities in Johannesburg have arrested a rent collector and uncovered an illegal settlement of undocumented foreign nationals living in squalid conditions in the upmarket suburb of Houghton.
The City of Johannesburg’s Public Safety Department and JMPD raided a house in Houghton on Wednesday, 18 June.
Inside, they found 90 undocumented foreigners living in overcrowded conditions, with the space crudely divided by curtains.
Public Safety MMC Dr Mgcini Tshwaku said another undocumented migrant collected rent from the occupants, who were mostly foreign nationals without legal documentation.
That individual, in turn, reported to a third party a white male who remains under investigation.
Rent Collector Arrested During Raid
Police arrested the undocumented rent collector after they found him hiding in overgrown grass behind the property.
He remains in custody and faces questioning about his role in the illegal occupation and possible links to those running the operation.
“This discovery highlights the organised and concealed nature of illegal settlements facilitated by undocumented individuals exploiting others,” Tshwaku said.
No Human Trafficking or Drugs Found
Law enforcement officers searched the premises for signs of human trafficking or narcotics but found no such evidence.
Authorities confirmed the main violations related to immigration offences and unauthorised occupation of private property.
Officials have now marked the building for closure.
The JMPD will monitor the site to prevent reoccupation as the city finalises legal steps.
Authorities expect to deport most of the 90 undocumented individuals or hold them for further legal proceedings.
City Urges Public to Report Illegal Settlements
Dr Tshwaku called on residents to remain vigilant and report illegal settlements and bylaw violations.
“Tip-offs about unlawful property use and undocumented occupants are essential to maintaining law and order in our city,” he said.
Do you think cities are doing enough to deal with illegal housing of undocumented foreigners?
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