Hijacking of ECDC buildings a threat to provincial economy, says DA

Eastern Cape DA leader Nqaba Bhanga says the invasion of Eastern Cape Development Corporation properties is posing a threat to the provincial economy.

ECDC properties in Mthatha and Butterworth have been subject to illegal invasions over the past few years with individuals allegedly subletting accommodation and raking in rents for themselves, instead of tenants paying rent to the corporation for occupying those buildings.

Earlier this month, the Hawks arrested three people in Mthatha and charged them with fraud in relation to the hijacking of ECDC buildings.

They have allegedly made R40m in rentals meant for ECDC coffers over five years.

The ECDC reported a Butterworth resident to police on a similar complaint. The official was working for the ECDC and has since been dismissed.

Speaking in Bhisho last week, Bhanga said the diversion of funds placed severe strain on the corporation’s revenue collection and oversight, and created a haven for alleged criminal activity.

“The ECDC’S properties in Mthatha have been hijacked by a criminal syndicate.

“Residents and business owners have found themselves at the mercy of criminals who have invaded and forcefully evicted tenants from properties belonging to the ECDC while demanding monthly rents from others.

“The syndicate has reportedly taken possession of people’s personal premises, adding their own padlocks to residents’ gates, saying that they have received permission from the ECDC, even where the properties were privately owned,” said Bhanga, a DA MPL.

The invaders’ actions posed a threat to the economy and to law and order, he added.

“Their actions have forced businesses to close. Not only is this a direct attack on property rights but it is also a threat to the economy of this province.”

Bhanga said the development corporation needed to get its house in order.

“Several key posts in the property unit are vacant. There have been allegations that members of the syndicate work with ECDC officials.

“The ECDC must investigate this matter and any official found to be working with criminals must be removed from office.

“The ECDC must also ensure the maintenance of its properties to avoid creating an opportunity for criminals to step in and act as a law unto themselves.”

Bhanga called on the provincial government to create mechanisms to stop the invasions.

“The MEC of economic development and environmental affairs [Mlungisi Mvoko] must declare war on hijacked buildings.

“We cannot give in to criminal intimidation and lawlessness.

“The hijacking of state buildings has started in Mthatha but if allowed to continue, illegal landlords and slum living will spread to the rest of the province as well as the crime that follows.

“The provincial government must send a clear message that the hijacking of state buildings will not be tolerated,” Bhanga said.