9 April 2025 – 15:15

Media Release

Johannesburg Water disconnects illegally connected hijacked buildings in inner-city operation

In a joint operation between the City of Johannesburg, Johannesburg Water, and City Power, the entities clamped down on illegal activities and bylaw infringement in Johannesburg CBD today.

Johannesburg Water and City Power officials disconnected illegally connected hijacked buildings as part of the bigger Inner-City Revitilistion Programme, which aims to tackle service delivery challenges and transform derelict and unsafe buildings.

“This follows President Ramaphosa’s recent visit to the City, where he noted the need to strengthen law enforcement and bring the City back to its world-class status,” says Nombuso Shabalala, Spokesperson for Johannesburg Water.

Officials from Johannesburg Water implemented Level 3 disconnections, which ensure that buildings cannot illegally re-connect until services are paid for.

“The lawlessness identified in the CBD include illegal water and electricity connections, hence the need for a joint operation between Johannesburg Water and City Power, who were accompanied by members of the South African Police Service, Johannesburg Metro Police Department, and Gauteng Community Police Forum to assist with possible resistance from the community.

Today’s operation is one of many that are planned by the City in the next coming months.

Ends

Issued by: Johannesburg Water Communication and Marketing.

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