Bush shelters has been removed by Overstrand Municipality since the beginning of the month.
Overstrand Municipality’s Law Enforcement teams have removed 22 makeshift structures, including tents, sleeping gear and/or cardboard shelters, from bushes and along cliff and coastal paths.
These illegal structures contravene municipal by-laws and pose health, sanitation and safety risks. The lack of proper hygiene and cooking facilities, coupled with the risk of fires, remains a serious concern for both occupants and surrounding communities.
A particularly concerning trend is that bush sleepers in the Voëlklip area appear to be using tents and materials of the same type, colour and make, suggesting that these items may have been supplied by a third party.
While the Municipality acknowledges the difficult circumstances faced by homeless individuals, residents are urged not to unintentionally enable vagrancy within their neighbourhoods.
Municipal Law Enforcement works closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS), neighbourhood watches and private security companies in ongoing efforts to maintain public safety and prevent opportunistic crime.
However, law enforcement cannot address the issue alone and relies on residents to continue serving as the eyes and ears of the community.
Where to Report
- Overstrand Law Enforcement: 028 313 8996
- Hermanus Police: 028 313 5300
- Collab Citizen App > Law Enforcement > Illegal Structures
- Email: landinvasions@overstrand.gov.za
- Overstrand Contact Centre: 028 313 8111
Also visit: https://www.overstrand.gov.za/
Source: Overstrand Municipality
