Hands off Uitenhage land invaders, says Nelson Mandela Bay Mayor Bobani
A land occupation in Khayelitsha, Uitenhage, which started a month ago had seen over 200 shacks erected by Thursday morning, GroundUp reports.
The occupation is taking place beside several busy roads, including Kiva, Cushe, Mabi, Gqabi and Sonto streets. The shacks have been squeezed onto any available open land in the area.
"We have now decided to be neighbours of cows and pigs. We live among kraals and pigsties," said a land occupant who did not wish to give their name.
Many shacks are on land up against the face brick New Apostolic Church on the corner of Mabi and Cushe streets.
Lizo Kilani from the church said: "We at church are happy... We have had break-ins, with church equipment being stolen frequently. In the most recent break-in, thugs stole the sound system speakers worth R10 000... We therefore appreciate the presence of these people and hope there will be no theft."