Caught on camera: watch how municipal worker sweeps dirt into drain

ETHEKWINI Municipality has launched an internal investigation after a video circulated on social media showing a city official sweeping litter directly into a stormwater drainage system.

The video, which has since gone viral, shows what appears to be a municipal employee in official uniform, sweeping what looks like grass and other waste into a roadside drain. According to the footage, the person was wearing a black mask, gloves and what appears to be a pink or orange hat. All the dirt had been swept together and after a quick glance around the person is seen sweeping it into a roadside drain. 

The municipality said it is treating the matter seriously and has initiated internal processes to ensure procedural fairness for all parties involved.

“The City strongly condemns this behaviour and remains committed to proper waste management practices and the protection of our natural resources,” a municipal spokesperson said. The City warned that improper disposal of waste into stormwater drains pollutes waterways and harms ecosystems. Appropriate corrective measures will be implemented based on the outcome of the investigation.

In the past, the municipality has repeatedly called on members of the public not to dump anything into the drainage system, which has led to widespread blockages. 

Several people commented on the incident on Facebook. Mluleki Shezi wrote: “Imagine if this incident occurred on camera - how many more cases do you think were not captured? Please educate your employees, as these actions have a negative impact on the environment.” 

Glenn Stephen De Gaspary said, “Then when it rains and flooding occurs you know who to blame.” 

Shabeer MO Mahomed responded to the video with, “This reminds me of myself pushing the dirt under the carpet.” 

The municipality has urged residents to report any misconduct by city employees anonymously to the city Integrity and Investigation Directorate on the toll-free number 0800 20 20 20.