Midvaal Local Municipality conducted a joint operation in the CBD, led by the Executive Mayor, Alderman Peter Teixeira, and Members of the Mayoral Committee.
This multi-stakeholder operation forms part of our ongoing efforts to ensure full compliance with municipal by-laws and protect the well-being of our residents. These operations are conducted regularly across Midvaal to uphold safety, order, and lawful business practices.
The inspection was carried out in partnership with the South African Police Service (SAPS), including the K9 Unit, Blue Shield compliance officers, Health Inspectors, Building Inspectors, the Fire Department, the Engineering Department, and other municipal officials.
During the operation, several serious contraventions were uncovered, posing significant risks to public health and safety, including: Unhygienic operating conditions in direct violation of health standards. Lack of fire extinguishers and inadequate fire safety measures.
Expired food products being sold to customers. People living and sleeping inside business premises. Shops operating in buildings not approved by the Municipality. A total of 12 notices were issued during the operation for unauthorised occupation, non-compliance with environmental health regulations, and non-compliance with fire safety requirements. Seven shops were immediately shut down for posing clear risks to public safety and failing to meet by-law standards.
They will remain closed until they fully comply with the Municipality’s regulatory requirements. We also identified hotspots where drugs are allegedly being sold. These areas have been flagged and will be taken up with SAPS to ensure swift and decisive action.
“We will continue to intensify enforcement operations throughout the municipality to safeguard our communities and ensure that all businesses operate lawfully and responsibly,” said Executive Mayor, Alderman Peter Teixeira.
