A number of structures were demolished by the HDC this morning at Ramjattan Trace, off Tumpuna Road, Arima.

According to the Corporation, this is part of continued action to address illegal squatting at the La Culebra site, which belongs to the state.

It says 20 structures were initially torn down in October 2024, with notices served to the occupants of 12 more requesting that they vacate by January 2025.

The HDC adds that occupants were given an additional nine days to vacate and remove any personal belongings before demolition took place.

Some of the persons claim to have occupied the land for over 15 years, and say they were promised relief by their MP.

In its statement, the HDC says recent satellite imagery showed that many of the structures were either newly built or still under construction.

It adds, “The removal of these illegal structures is a necessary step in advancing the development of legitimate housing solutions for citizens in need.”

There are also allegations of fraudulent activities with regard to the illegal sale of state lands – the HDC says investigations are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.