EMPD condemns increase of mushrooming vendors
The EMPD has seen a rise in numbers of informal trading activity occurring in almost every road since people alleged to have lost their jobs.
Following the pandemic, Alberton is experiencing an enormous number of street traders on almost every road with people claiming to have lost their jobs.
Hennie Alberts Street, a busy street in Brackenhurst, has also been reported to have more street vendors mushrooming up in the area.
A Brackendowns resident told the RECORD that she has reported the matter to the EMPD and approached businesses and homeowners where this is taking place.
“This is not allowed, according to municipal by-laws. We understand that there is no work and times are tough with Covid-19, but we can see where there is a need and those selling drugs in the area,” she said.
According to EMPD spokesperson Chief Sup Kelebogile Thepa, Hennie Alberts Street is not demarcated and approved for trading.
“We are aware that some street vendors are not familiar with certain requirements they have to comply with in terms of the City of Ekurhuleni by-laws before they start trading on the public roads of the City,” she said.
She said usually when EMPD officials come across this kind of situation, they address the issue through awareness.
“Street vendors would be notified that they have to apply at their nearest customer care centre (CCC) through the Department of Economic Development. This is for them to qualify to trade on certain roads or sections,” said Thepa.
At times, the EMPD’s effort to educate people falls on deaf ears and after a verbal warning, the EMPD attends to them where written notices are issued.
“They are then instructed to stop trading, as they would be contravening the by-laws of the City. Some do abide by the rules. We are on a crusade to address all similar challenges. However, EMPD officials do approach them and continue with workshops and campaigns, strongly emphasising compliance,” she said.
