The City of Tshwane successfully conducted another ‘Reclaim Our City’ operation, resulting in the arrest of nine illegal immigrants and the confiscation of illegal firearms.

The operation was led by the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD), the South African Police Service (SAPS), as well as the City of Tshwane’s Health Department and Environment and Agriculture Management Department.

The operation is conducted weekly to enforce by-law compliance among businesses and address criminal activities in Tshwane.

During the operation, authorities stated that they had uncovered an illegal gambling establishment disguised as an internet café.

“We found 13 firearms and R8 320 in cash. A person found inside the establishment was arrested.”

Additionally, the Health Department issued Notice Number 7571567 to the establishment, amounting to R5,000.

The operation also led to the closure of large retailers, reinforcing that they are not exempt from accountability with checks at Pick n Pay, Pizza Perfect, and Woolworths.

The mayor of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya stated that while a Woolworths outlet they inspected was not closed, there were concerns about several aspects of its business operations and several notices were issued.

“The Health Department issued OTR Notice Number 026552, while the Emergency Services Department issued OTR Notice Number 24598 due to the absence of visible fire equipment signage and the failure to display the hazardous substances certificate,” the statement said.

The Pizza Perfect was also affected in the operation after its owner was found employing undocumented immigrants.

The operation’s success followed the shocking closure of a city Pick n Pay after inspectors found the store in violation of multiple codes, including an expired permit, blocked firehose reels, a loose gas cylinder in the stove (with an extra one improperly stored), and storage under the stairs.

This development was widely shared on social media, with Moya stating that the store's licence would be revoked and urging customers to refrain from buying from the store until they announced that it was health compliant.

The operation led to the arrest of nine individuals for contravening Section 49(1)(a) of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002). Additionally, 17 notices, totaling R7,600, were issued for violations of the Businesses Act, 1991 (Act 71 of 1991).

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za