Region A’s multi-disciplinary bylaw enforcement operation resulted in the immediate shutdown of Mhulu Luxury Boutique Hotel, located at 37 Hampton Street, Glen Austin, following serious contraventions of City bylaws and outstanding municipal debt exceeding R1.3 million on Monday, 02 February 2026.
The operation was led by the Acting Regional Director, Thaba Makgafela, alongside the JMPD Director Eldred Fortein for Bylaws Enforcement, and senior officials from Emergency Management Services (EMS), City Power, CRUM, Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), and Johannesburg Water.
During the inspection, EMS officials instructed the General Manager, Khaya Mahanuke, to close the establishment with immediate effect after it was discovered that the property had no approved building plans and was operating in violation of several City bylaws.
Mahanuke claimed that the establishment relied on a borehole for water supply. However, investigations by Johannesburg Water revealed that the property had illegally reconnected itself to a Joburg Water meter located outside the premises. Furthermore, the establishment failed to provide the required City approval for drilling a borehole, which is a mandatory prerequisite within the City of Johannesburg.
Makgafela documented and uploaded the work conducted during the operation, reiterating that Region A is intensifying its drive to enforce by laws and ensure compliance across all sectors.
“This operation demonstrates Region A’s unwavering commitment to enforcing City bylaws and restoring order. No business or property owner is above the law, and we will continue to act decisively against non-compliance that threatens public safety and undermines service delivery.”
Illegal occupation in Midrand
Before the Glen Austin shutdown, the operation’s first stop was at 180 Harry Galaun Drive in Carlswald, Midrand, a dilapidated structure had more than 12 occupants living in a three-bedroom house situated alongside the road.
The illegal occupants informed officials that they previously paid a rental fee of R70 each to a man identified as Mr William, who reportedly died around 2013. Since then, they have continued occupying the property, which has no access to water or electricity.
One of the occupants, Thabo Letshwalo from QwaQwa, said they collect water from a fire hydrant along the road, use batteries for lighting, and firewood for cooking.
City officials explained the applicable bylaws to the occupants and issued a notice to vacate, citing serious health and safety risks, as the house is unsuitable for occupation by such a large number of people, before structure was later demolished.
Written by Luyanda Lunika