Residents of the Chief Albert Luthuli informal settlement in Benoni are frantically salvaging their belongings following the demolition of approximately 200 structures by authorities.
Many residents reported receiving no prior notice of the operation, describing the sudden arrival of excavators as deeply distressing. One resident recounted the shock of the demolitions occurring without warning, forcing families to hurriedly remove doors and other possessions as machinery moved in. Some said they had not slept and sustained injuries during the rushed efforts to save what they could.
Several residents shared how long they had lived in the structures. One described building over three years, with extensions added in subsequent years, while noting the absence of basic services such as water.
The City of Ekurhuleni linked the demolitions to illegal mining activities in the area. The City also confirmed the arrest of 110 undocumented foreign nationals during the operation.
Residents, however, alleged complicity by some members of the police. They claimed that officers from Crystal Park Police Station are corrupt and actively involved with criminals operating in the settlement. According to the allegations, certain officers enter the area in the morning and afternoon, collecting money daily from criminals in the shacks. Residents further alleged that if community members report criminal activity, police tip off the suspects, warning them and threatening those who speak out.
The City of Ekurhuleni has not commented on the specific allegations of police involvement. Residents continue to express frustration over the loss of their homes and the conditions that led to the demolitions.
