A comprehensive two-day operation conducted by the Community Safety Forum from August 7 to August 8, 2024, sought to bolster compliance among businesses in the Standerton Central Business District (CBD). Spearheaded by the MMC for Community Services and Safety, Cllr Seipati Modise, and the MMC for Planning & Economic Development, Cllr Thabo Sebiloane, the operation was as result of a partnership of stakeholders such as the Department of Home Affairs, Team Ngenelela, AfriForum, Kasselman Security Services, the Gert Sibande District Municipality health inspectors, the Fire & Rescue Department and Lekwa municipality officials.
On the first day of the operation, the team inspected approximately five businesses across the Standerton CBD. The focus was on ensuring compliance with regulations concerning the sale of expired products, immigration laws, and building standards in relation to fire and rescue laws. During these inspections, several violations were identified various food products deemed expired were confiscated and one illegal immigrant was detained.
The second day of the operation was marked by a significant development following a tip-off about an illegal clinic operating at 19 Beyers Naude Street. The Department of Health, SAPS, Ward 10 Cllr Wilma Venter and Cllr Daniel Venter were involved in this crucial part of the operation. Upon arrival, authorities found a female individual claiming to be a nurse. However, she was revealed to be an unregistered practitioner and was subsequently arrested. Additionally, two illegal immigrants were detained, and a variety of medications and medical equipment were confiscated. The illegal clinic was shut down.
In a related inspection within the same building, a salon business was closely examined, leading to the arrest of four illegal immigrants. The operation further extended into the Standerton industrial area, where a transport and logistics company was inspected. This inspection resulted in the arrest of one illegal immigrant, and the employer faced a fine of R1,500 for non-compliance.
MMC Seipati Modise expressed her satisfaction with the operation’s outcomes and said: “Our priority is to ensure that businesses operate within the bounds of the law and adhere to safety regulations. The actions taken over the past two days reflect our commitment to protecting the community and upholding standards.”
MMC Thabo Sebiloane added: “Effective planning and economic development go hand in hand with compliance and safety. This operation highlights our dedication to enforcing regulations that safeguard both the business environment and the well-being of our residents.”