A group of queer activists who checked into an upmarket Camps Bay property on Friday September 18, then refused to check out, have been charged with trespassing and fraud by the property management company.
They are occupying the mansion to draw attention to land and housing matters, and plan to remain in the home for two to three months.
The seven occupants from the Queer Radical Feminist Activist Collective, under the #WeSeeYou movement, formally booked the home through Airbnb for three nights. They say they aim is to draw attention to the lack of safe spaces queer people, women and children, and the homeless have in society.
Last week, property management Turnkey 365 issued an ultimatum for them to vacate the property by Thursday or face eviction.
Managing Director of Turnkey 365, Gaby van Wyk, said in a statement that they have instituted legal and civil proceedings to the group.
“Following the refusal of a group of guests to vacate a property under our management in Camps Bay, we have instituted both legal and civil proceedings to achieve an eviction and recoup all costs incurred.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana confirmed to IOL that a case had been opened at Camps Bay police station on Heritage Day. “No-one has been arrested or evicted by Saps Camps Bay at this stage; the investigation is ongoing,” she said.
