Five undocumented foreign nationals operating spaza shops in Umlazi, south of Durban, were arrested during a three-day multi-disciplinary compliance operation conducted this week.
A total of 34 tuckshops were inspected by eThekwini Municipality’s law enforcement agencies and Environmental Health Officers.
The operation was conducted in partnership with Durban Metro Police, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the City’s Business Licensing Division, and the Supply Side and Area-Based Operations Directorate.
The multi-disciplinary initiative focused on enforcing municipal by-laws, verifying business licence compliance, ensuring adherence to food safety and hygiene standards, and safeguarding public health.
During the inspections, most businesses were found to be operating without valid business licences, raising significant compliance concerns.
On the first day of the operation on 9 March 2026, officials inspected 14 tuckshops in Umlazi’s K and H sections.
“None of the businesses had valid licences. One fine and one summons were issued for dirty conditions. Warnings were also issued.
“The operation moved to Q and U sections on 10 March, where 12 tuckshops were inspected. None of the businesses had valid licences,” the municipality said.
Officials issued warnings, and Environmental Health Practitioners are expected to conduct follow-up inspections to ensure that corrective measures are implemented.
Operations on Wednesday, 11 March, focused on sections T and B, where eight tuckshops were inspected.
Of these, one had a pending licence application, while seven were operating without licences.
“Two fines were issued, along with summonses for dirty conditions and expired foodstuffs. Expired goods were confiscated to prevent them from being sold to the public. Warnings were also issued,” the municipality said.
Inspectors also uncovered illegal electricity connections at some premises, posing additional safety risks.
The municipality said the joint operations reflect the city’s commitment to protecting residents, enforcing compliance, and ensuring that businesses operate within the confines of the law.
The city warned that it will not tolerate non-compliance, particularly where public health and safety are compromised.
Similar operations will be rolled out in other communities as the municipality strengthens law enforcement and promotes responsible and compliant business practices.
Businesses are urged to visit municipal Business Licensing Offices to register or renew their licences, as trading without a valid licence is an offence under the Business Licensing Act 71 of 1991.
For licence applications or renewals, businesses can contact the City’s Business Licensing Division on 031 311 4535, email licensing@durban.gov.za, or visit 199 Anton Lembede Street, Embassy Building, 7th Floor. – SAnews.gov.za
