Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson Vows Action Against Departmental Officials Tied to Building Hijacking

Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson orders an urgent report on department officials allegedly colluding with building hijackers in Carletonville.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 10, 2026, 8:04 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Eyewitness News

Investigating Decades of Urban Decay

During a high profile visit to Carletonville on Friday, Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson confronted the severe deterioration of state owned assets that have been left to ruin for two decades. The focal point of the visit was a former police station that has transitioned from a functional law enforcement hub into a haven for illegal occupants. The site, characterized by overgrown grass, shattered windows, and open manholes, serves as a stark visual representation of the administrative neglect that Macpherson has vowed to rectify through his new ministerial mandate.

Institutional Collusion Under Scrutiny

The Minister expressed deep disturbance over reports indicating that the hijacking of government property may be an inside job. Information provided during the site visit suggests that departmental officials have actively colluded with illegal landlords to facilitate the unauthorized occupation of state assets. Macpherson has formally directed the Deputy Director-General to compile a comprehensive report detailing the names of suspected individuals within the department who are allegedly profiting from these criminal activities.

Expansion of Illegal Property Rentals

The scope of the crisis in Carletonville extends beyond the singular police station building. Investigations revealed that seven surrounding properties, all belonging to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, have also fallen under the control of hijackers. These premises are reportedly being utilized by illegal landlords who collect rent from occupants without any legal standing or benefit to the state treasury. Macpherson noted that the report on these specific activities will be made public once finalized to ensure full transparency.