Property hijackers are now targeting homes in residential neighbourhoods.
Criminal syndicates or opportunistic groups illegally seize homes, often renting them out to unsuspecting tenants.
BusinessTech writes that there are reports of a syndicate working with individuals at the deeds office in Pretoria.
Traditionally, hijackings occurred in city centres, where neglected or abandoned buildings were taken over by illegal occupants.
The syndicates are well-organised; they forge ownership documents, making it difficult for legitimate property owners to reclaim their homes.
Homes, particularly in Gauteng, include those where the owner is currently residing outside the province or country, leaving the property empty. Estates of deceased persons are also vulnerable.
The main purpose of the hijackings is to rent out the properties, often to individuals who don’t have the required documentation to legally occupy the property.
Reclaiming these properties is fraught with challenges, including legal battles, threats of violence by the hijackers, and the need to find alternative housing for displaced occupants.
The Department of Human Settlements says there’s a need for stronger legislation and enforcement mechanisms to protect property rights
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