The Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality (CALM) has intensified its Ward-Based Revenue Enhancement Campaign, leading to the closure of a KFC outlet and several spaza shops found to be operating in violation of municipal by-laws and health regulations.
According to CALM spokesperson Thapelo Phetla, the campaign aims to improve regulatory compliance, protect public health, strengthen municipal governance, and create a fair business environment by ensuring that all businesses comply with licensing and health requirements.
During an inspection of the KFC outlet in Elukwatini, municipal officials discovered that construction work was taking place inside the food preparation area while employees continued preparing meals for customers.
Inspectors said the practice posed an immediate health risk and violated basic hygiene standards.
Additional health and safety concerns were also identified, prompting officials to order the immediate closure of the outlet.
“The safety of our residents and the integrity of our food supply chain are non-negotiable for the Municipality. We cannot and will not tolerate situations where businesses place profits above the health and safety of their workers and the public,” Phetla said said.
The restaurant will only be allowed to reopen once all compliance issues have been addressed and the relevant authorities have certified that the premises meet the required health and safety standards.
Several spaza shops were also ordered to close after inspectors found they were operating without valid business licences and the necessary municipal compliance documentation, contrary to municipal by-laws and applicable legislation.
The municipality, however, commended Amazamba Shop for meeting all legal and regulatory requirements, describing it as an example of responsible business practice and compliance with municipal standards.
Phetla said inspections will continue across the municipality through unannounced visits to food outlets, construction sites and other businesses. Businesses found to be violating regulations face fines, closure notices and other enforcement measures until they achieve full compliance.
Meanwhile, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mayflower, together with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), municipal by-law enforcement officers, the Traffic Department, Community Policing Forum members and Crime Prevention Wardens, conducted Operation Shanela in Ka-Madi on Friday, July 10.
The multidisciplinary operation targeted transnational crime, including unlicensed firearms, undocumented foreign nationals, drug-related offences, human trafficking, stolen property and health and safety compliance at foreign-owned shops.
The operation resulted in one arrest for the possession of dagga (cannabis), while officers issued 43 fines and summonses for various offences.
Mayflower SAPS Visible Policing Commander Warrant Officer N.F. Nkuna said collaborative operations remain vital in tackling crime and ensuring safer communities.
He encouraged residents to cooperate with law enforcement officials and report suspicious criminal activities to their nearest police station or the SAPS Crime Stop hotline.
