Massive housing scam uncovered in Lenasia

2010-09-07 7:29:00 PM

One of the biggest housing scams has been exposed in Lenasia South of Johannesburg. The Gauteng housing department together with the Hawks have uncovered an illegal land invasion scam'in which private and state land is stolen and then sold fraudulently.

It is believed the operation is part of a bigger syndicate operating in the province. The housing syndicate uncovered hectares of land hijacked from government and private owners and then sold on to unsuspecting prospective buyers.

The scam involves the sale of land and the building of houses without plans. Once the houses have been erected illegal water and electricity connections are set up. The housing department says it is still assessing just how many illegally built houses exist. It will then take necessary steps to reclaim the land.

It will seek eviction and demolition orders to get back the land. Gauteng Housing Department's Fred Mokoko says: "There may be people, departments who are involved we will also forward that information to the police and if they are able to find anything we will follow the investigation."

The Hawks'are following up leads and are currently looking for a man believed to be the kingpin behind the syndicate. The syndicate currently operating in Lenasia and neighbouring Ennerdale has already netted R15 million.