A group of homeless people has been evicted from the Castle of Good Hope after living there for two years. On Friday, the court sheriff, with help from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Cape Town Metro Police, removed the unauthorized occupants from the national monument.
Before the eviction, two structures were set on
fire in protest, but there was no further resistance once police and
firefighters arrived to put out the fire. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis
called the eviction an important step for the city.
"The City of Cape Town welcomes this
positive milestone. Positive for the whole city, positive for this heritage
site, and positive for those who were living in indignity at this site for
several years. This has been a very visible site of urban decay in recent
years, and its clean up today is an important moment for urban restoration in
the city," Hill-Lewis said.
He said he was relieved that the illegal
occupation has ended, noting its impact on tourism and the well-being of those
affected. The Department of Public Works obtained an eviction order two months
ago to clear the area. The homeless individuals have been offered shelter at
safe space facilities in the city.
Done by: Stephanie Van Rayen
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