Modus<i> </i>Operandi used by hijackers to hijack buildings in Johannesburg, South Africa

Abstract

Illegal occupation of buildings referred as hijacked building has emerged as a critical urban crime phenomenon in South Africa’s Johannesburg inner city area, particularly within Region F, which is a designated administrative area within Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa. This article presents a case study analysis of property fraud, examining the socio-economic, legal, and institutional factors that enable its persistence. Drawing from qualitative data, the study explores how hijackers exploit systemic vulnerabilities and abandoned properties. The findings reveal that hijacking of buildings is orchestrated by organized syndicates using sophisticated methods such as title deed fraud, impersonation, and intimidation. The study advocates for a multi-pronged response that includes legal reform, enhanced inter-agency collaboration to halt hijacking of buildings. The study advances knowledge of the difficulties that South African cities face and provides useful suggestions for legislation and enforcement by placing hijacked assets within larger framework of urban crime.

Keywords: {'name': 'Buildings'}, {'name': 'Hijackers'}

Authors & affiliations

Rudzani Ngobele
Affiliation not supplied

Beauty Thabisile Lebitso
University of South Africa

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