The development in Kinross, known as Ext 30, has been controversial from its inception. Overseen by the Department of Human Settlement, the project has now been invaded by people desperate for land to build their own homes, leading to chaos and conflict at the site.

From the beginning, the development was marred by poor workmanship and planning. Funds intended for Ext 30 were also diverted to a similar project in Charl Cilliers, raising concerns about mismanagement and misallocation of resources—issues that will be explored further.

The Bulletin spoke to several individuals at the site, some claiming they were official beneficiaries of the development and showing correspondence confirming their successful applications. However, questions about the true ownership of the land have now arisen.

Adding to the dispute, a man claiming to be Malilesa has reportedly arrived and told everyone that he is the owner of the land. During a telephone conversation, an anonymous source told the Bulletin, “Malilesa has arrived and told everyone he owns this land. They are starting to destroy the shacks!”

Contradictory information has emerged from another source, which stated that Malilesa did not claim ownership but was opposed to illegal shacks near his land, which borders the development site. The situation remains unclear, as the Bulletin has yet to verify these claims and intends to speak directly with Malilesa.

Earlier today, law enforcement officials from GMM Law Enforcement and Kinross SAPS were present at the site and scheduled a meeting with the “invaders” for noon tomorrow. Despite this, the construction of new shacks continued unabated.

Several pressing questions remain unresolved:

• Why was the project never finalised? It is understood that a proposed sewer pipeline had to be rerouted due to a land dispute, causing some sections to run uphill, which compromises infrastructure integrity.
• Why were land allocations made four to five years ago without subsequent action? This delay has contributed to the chaos and confusion at the site.
• Can an individual claim land ownership without proper sale documentation? There are concerns about land being sold without clear proof, raising questions about legitimacy.
• What about the state of infrastructure? A representative from Tiger Business Enterprises, the company responsible for roads and utilities, indicated that insufficient funds prevented the proper completion of roads and culverts. Cement ditches were built as interim structures, which vehicles now struggle to traverse. While two areas were tarred, they were never connected by any access roads.

Allegations have also been made that some plots were sold by a local councillor, further complicating land ownership rights and trust in local governance.

The Bulletin is committed to seeking answers to these urgent questions. The issues surrounding the Charl Cilliers development and another project just outside Leandra also warrant investigation, as they may reflect broader governance and planning challenges within the region.

As this situation unfolds, the community and beneficiaries deserve transparency and justice. The ongoing saga at Kinross Ext 30 highlights the need for accountability and proper land management to prevent similar conflicts in the future.