Following several requests from community members, Midvaal Local Municipality conducted a joint operation in the De Deur and Walkerville areas to address lawlessness and ensure compliance with applicable laws and by-laws.
The operation was carried out in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Home Affairs’ Immigration Unit, Traffic Services, the Fire Department, as well as Health and Building Inspectors. During the operation, a total of 49 individuals, 14 vehicles, and two premises were searched.
SAPS arrested four foreign nationals without valid documentation, one individual for the sale of illicit cigarettes and two individuals for aiding, employing, and harbouring persons without valid documentation. A mini roadblock was conducted to assess vehicle roadworthiness and driver compliance.
Several offences were identified, including unroadworthy vehicles and the use of cell phones while driving. The necessary fines were issued. Compliance inspections were conducted at 11 spaza shops, resulting in four non-compliance warnings being issued and two shops being closed. Several establishments were also found to be operating without valid Certificates of Acceptability (COAs).
Inspectors found expired food products and shops operating in unhygienic conditions. The municipality will continue to conduct joint operations in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders. Midvaal Local Municipality remains committed to enforcing the law and protecting the safety and well-being of its residents.
