A supermarket in Isipingo was fined R17500 by the eThekwini Municipality’s Environmental Health Unit for operating under filthy conditions, selling unwholesome food, having broken toilets and no change rooms facilities for staff, smoking on the premises, among other contraventions.
This harsh fine came during a crackdown of illegal activity in the area, held in partnership with the provincial Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environmental Affairs (EDTEA), SAPS, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Labour and other authorities.
Authorities took a hard stance against businesses flouting regulations, bylaws and Covid-19 lockdown rules. Traders and businesses alike were inspected, and no one was spared in the blitz that lasted three days.
Sifiso Xulu, Isipingo Regeneration Chairperson said “At least 13 businesses were closed for non-compliance and not having a licence to trade. Five food outlet owners were arrested. In one instance 21 people were inside a hair salon, that is not allowed to trade during the lockdown. Metro Police also removed more than 3 tons of stolen property from informal traders and arrested at least 15 people for various offences.
People in the area are not concerned about lockdown regulations and are not practising social distancing or wearing masks. With Isipingo being a hotspot for Covid-19, more of these raids will be conducted until people get the message that non-compliance will not be tolerated.”
Buildings were inspected for proper water and electricity connections, compliance with building, fire, and health regulations and various notices and fines were issued.