6 arrested following Durban construction site invasion

3 Feb 2022

On Tuesday, 1 February, a heavily armed group gained forced access to the Durban High Court construction site, in an alleged attempt to gain control of the site. The South African Police Service and the SAPS Tactical Team responded, arresting six people in the process.

Source: hxdyl © 123RF.com

The High Court redevelopment and renovation project by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) is expected to be completed in September 2025 at a cost of R850m. It includes renovating the existing historic building, as well as the construction of two new buildings to accommodate additional courtrooms and High Court staff.

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Added costs, delays

The DPWI has said that site invasions, such as the one which occurred this week, add delays and costs to the project, which is ultimately funded by the taxpayer.

Acting director-general of the department, Imtiaz Fazel, commended the SAPS for their swift and decisive action in arresting those responsible for invasion of the site: “It is such disruptions that have led to delays in many projects, disrupting service delivery and holding the country to ransom. We would like to reiterate that as a department we will prosecute, to the fullest extent of the law, anyone who seeks to illegally benefit from state infrastructure projects,” Fazel said.

Construction at the site is expected to resume on Monday.

Source: SAnews.gov.za

SAnews.gov.za is a South African government news service, published by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS). SAnews.gov.za (formerly BuaNews) was established to provide quick and easy access to articles and feature stories aimed at keeping the public informed about the implementation of government mandates.

Go to: http://www.sanews.gov.za