By ORCHY REX
THE Residents of 9-Mile’s Bushwara portions 2156, 2157, and 2159 are facing a ticking clock as the deadline for their eviction is around the corner.
With less than 80 days left to vacate the land, authorities are intensifying efforts to raise awareness about the impending eviction.
Following a court order granting title to Namabawan Super (NSL) for the mentioned portions of land, residents were given 120 days to voluntarily vacate the land.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Peter Guinness reiterated the urgency of the situation, stating that “On July 11th, 2024, machines will be moving in to remove the structures that are still there.”
ACP Guinness noted the importance of compliance with court order and highlighted the legal implications, stating that they (police) are complying with a court order and if they don’t do this they are liable for contempt of court.
He urged residents to understand the court process and voluntarily leave, with police officers available to assist as per the court order.
NSL, which has been in a legal battle over the land since 1990, aims to secure legal title to its fourth adjacent piece of land, portion 2158.
The area currently occupied by illegal settlements spans over 200 hectares, accommodating an estimated 5,000 squatters, along with schools, churches, gardens, and other properties.
In response to the impending eviction, NSL has set up an office at the project site to help the affected residents.
Police presence has also been heightened, with officers stationed on-site 24 hours a day to ensure the safe evacuation of individuals living in the area.
