South Africa has ruled out compensation for owners of illegal structures while asking the Nigerian government to identify alleged criminal locations linked to Nigerians for investigation.
PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA — South African Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said the government will not compensate owners of illegal structures because the law only recognises legally registered properties. She made the remarks while addressing issues surrounding enforcement actions against unlawful buildings, according to official comments reported by local media.
Ntshavheni said authorities would continue to enforce existing laws without making compensation payments for structures that do not meet legal requirements. She explained that government agencies would only recognise properties that comply with South African laws and registration procedures. According to her, property owners must meet legal standards before they can qualify for protections provided under the country’s laws.
The minister also called on the Nigerian government to provide information on any alleged criminal locations linked to Nigerian nationals. She said South African law enforcement agencies would investigate and take action wherever credible evidence exists. According to Ntshavheni, authorities remain committed to addressing criminal activities regardless of the nationality of those involved, while following the country’s legal process.
Her comments come amid ongoing discussions about crime, illegal immigration, and law enforcement in South Africa. These issues have remained sensitive in recent years, particularly following concerns raised by some community groups and government officials about organised crime and undocumented settlements. South African authorities have repeatedly stated that law enforcement operations target criminal activity rather than any specific nationality, while Nigerian officials have also called for fair treatment of Nigerian citizens living legally in the country.
The development means South African authorities intend to maintain a strict position on illegal structures and property rights while seeking cooperation from Nigeria on verified criminal allegations. Any information provided by the Nigerian government could form part of future law enforcement investigations if supported by evidence. The statement also highlights the importance of cross-border cooperation between both countries in addressing crime through established legal channels, while protecting the rights of law-abiding residents and ensuring enforcement actions remain consistent with South African law.
