CITIZENS MUST RESPECT THE LAW OF THE COUNTRY

CITIZENS MUST RESPECT THE LAW OF THE COUNTRY

 By BRIAN KAJENGO

Nelspruit – the Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Meshack Nogwanya pleads with the community of Mpumalanga to adhere to the prescripts of the law regarding where and how land can be occupied as a residential area.

“More often we see community members being forcefully relocated from one area to another due to unlawful occupation. It is worrying that people occupy land illegally and the next thing they start demanding basic services from authorities and if they do not receive such services, they resort to violent protests. As the police we are obliged to enforce the law and to maintain order.” He said.

To abate confrontations between the police and the community, we therefore request the community not to occupy any land illegally.

Ngomane signed a Memorandum of Understanding with other stakeholders that talks to the subject of land invasion.

The MOU is strengthens obligations wherein the Province undertake to investigate cases reported by traditional council or duly authorised representatives with respect to illegal demarcations and/or selling of land and stands. We also undertake to ensure law enforcement against any person subsequently found camping or involved in similar illegal activity.

“As SAPS we will assist with the process of combating unlawful land invasion. We will ensure that we assist with the enforcement of court orders sought by Traditional Leaders and the municipalities regarding land invasion”, said General Nogwanya.