The City of Tshwane’s allocation of service stands to Zithobeni Heights residents has been rocked by allegations of illicit sales of sites intended for beneficiaries in need. 

Tshwane’s Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Human Settlements, Aaron Maluleka, expressed concern that some beneficiaries are selling their allocated stands shortly after receiving them.

He made this revelation during a visit to the area on Friday, accompanied by Deputy Executive Mayor Eugene Modise. 

The visit was aimed to address allegations that threatened to deny deserving residents their rightful allocation of sites. 

Maluleka called for an investigation into the matter, with the City’s Group Audit and Risk division tasked with determining the full extent of these unlawful activities.

“We adopt a zero-tolerance stance towards corruption and malfeasance. Any City officials found to be involved in these unlawful acts will face severe consequences, including disciplinary action, criminal prosecution, and the termination of their careers,” he said.

The investigation follows a meeting between Maluleka, Modise, and councillors for wards 102 and 105 to discuss the Zithobeni Heights Serviced Stands Project’s progress. 

Maluleka said that the City recognises certain vulnerable groups, such as child-headed families, backyard dwellers, and emergency cases, are not being adequately addressed through the current initiative.

To address this issue, a new housing project is set to commence shortly, providing an additional 3,000 housing opportunities specifically for these categories. 

The development includes strategically reserved open spaces for essential community facilities, which will be protected from unlawful occupation.

Maluleka urged members of the public with information on the illegal sale of stands or other corrupt activities to report such malfeasance to the nearest SAPS station or the City of Tshwane Fraud Hotline. 

He said a ward 102 councillor has been directed to collaborate with City officials to finalise the relocation of remaining beneficiaries from his ward.

“The development includes strategically reserved open spaces designated for essential community facilities, including churches, sports facilities, schools, and parks. These spaces are critical for future community development and will be protected from unlawful occupation. The Metro Police Department has been instructed to remove any individuals who illegally occupy these reserved areas, as they are vital for the long-term social and recreational needs of the community,” he said.

rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za

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