Joscho slams attack on workers

APPLICATIONS for the new Johannesburg Social Housing Company’s (Joshco) Devland, Soweto housing project have been suspended because of an attack on staff members and theft of official stationery.

Since then, residents have been receiving bogus SMSes, WhatsApp messages and letters on “official” Joscho letterheads.

Staff members were attacked by a group of unidentified people at Joshco’s Central Park offices, situated behind the Bara Mall, during an enquiry process for the 255unit housing complex.

Official Joscho stationery was forcefully taken during the attack. Branding material was burnt as well as enquiry forms completed by the residents that morning.

The attackers demanded that allocations for the Devland project exclude residents of Freedom Park, and to prioritise certain wards.

Joshco’s chief executive Anthony Ngcezula said such disruptions were discouraging for the dedicated staff members, who were concerned about the rising number of inquiries on all the projects.

“However, we are pleased that law enforcement agencies are investigating the attack and that arrests are imminent,” he added.

In the meantime, all enquiries on the Devland project have been suspended until further notice.

The public is advised to take note of the following: