Fifty-three newly built houses were destroyed in Noordhoek, Velddrif, in the Bergrivier Municipal area. Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape Human Settlements Minister, Tertuis Simmers, has come out to “strongly” condemn the destruction.

Simmers revealed that the houses were part of the area’s Integrated Residential Development Programme (IRDP). The programme was building 107 houses.

DA elaborates on what happened to the Velddrif houses

The minister said:

“It is alleged that over the last two days, protestors with so-called service delivery demands, set these houses and the local library alight. The damage is currently estimated at R4,2 million.” Tertuis Simmers, Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape Human Settlements Minister

Simmers called the actions of the protestors who had destroyed the homes “thuggery.” He added:

“Their actions are completely counter-productive, as it not only hampers the delivery of houses, but now also denies deserving beneficiaries an opportunity to move into their new homes.” Tertuis Simmers, Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape Human Settlements Minister

Velddrif protesters upset about title deed mix-up

GroundUp revealed how protesters were upset because the title deeds of several people were withdrawn at the last minute. The withdrawal came after it was discovered that the people didn’t qualify for the Velddrif housing project.

On Monday, 14 October 2019, the area was brought to a standstill as several residents took to the streets to protest. The protesters blockaded roads with burning tyres and rubbish around the Noordhoek community.

The housing project cost R11 million.

Minister condemns “criminal actions”

The DA minister noted how “criminal actions” wouldn’t be condoned. He called on the police to “act swiftly against these perpetrators, so that they can face the full might of the law.”

Simmers revealed his intention to visit the area on Thursday, 17 October 2019. He shared his plans to conduct a public meeting there.

However, he was adamant that he wouldn’t “legitimise the actions of those who caused these damages.” The DA minister said he would continue engaging the mayor about the matter.

DA minister urges citizens to apply for housing

Despite the recent incident, Simmers encouraged people who wanted housing assistance to register with the housing department. He said:

“I’d like to urge all citizens who need housing assistance from government, to register at their local housing office. Residents that are already registered should ensure that their details are up to date, particularly if contact information has changed since registration.” Tertuis Simmers, Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape Human Settlements Minister

The minister concluded by noting: