City targets businesses that owe money
Liquor estimated at around R700 000 has been confiscated from a trader operating without a licence during operation.
The City of Ekurhuleni, led by officials and supported by the EMPD, SAPS, and Immigration Enforcement, recently carried out Operation Clean Up the City, targeting businesses in Germiston and Primrose that owe money to the municipality.
City official Sarah Sekete spearheaded the operation, which began with a caucus and parade in Germiston CBD before teams dispersed to conduct inspections and recover outstanding debts.
Clampdown on illegal connections
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In Primrose, a liquor outlet previously fined R31 122.91 for illegal electricity connections in July faced a new penalty exceeding R62 000 for reconnecting illegally.
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini highlighted the operation’s objectives: “The aim was to ensure compliance at shops and liquor outlets and recover monies owed to the city.
“During the operation, liquor worth approximately R700 000 was confiscated from a trader operating without a license.”
The blitz also saw technicians disconnecting electricity to businesses with long-standing unpaid bills.
“Businesses ignoring requests to settle their accounts are now facing service disconnections,” said Dlamini.
Call to action
The city warned defaulters to pay up or face stricter actions.
“Debt management interventions are intensifying to ensure financial sustainability and the continued delivery of quality public services,” said Dlamini.
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To encourage payments, the city launched the #PayYourPart campaign, using SMS and email reminders to nudge customers toward settling arrears or arranging payment plans.
Payment arrangements
The city outlined its payment arrangement policy:
• First arrangement: No down payment required.
• Second arrangement: 15% down payment.
• Third arrangement: 30% down payment.
• Residential property owners may apply for debt rehabilitation if their properties are valued at less than R1.5m and have outstanding debt exceeding 12 months.
Non-compliance will result in water restrictions and electricity disconnections until payment is made or arrangements are finalised.
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Options
Customers can pay their accounts at customer care centres, major retail stores (e.g. Ackermans, Boxer, Pick n Pay, Shoprite), or through third-party platforms like Pay@ and Cigicell using prefix 11544 and their municipal account numbers.
“The city remains resolute in establishing a payment culture and maintaining accountability for municipal services,” Dlamini said.
Residents with queries about their arrears are encouraged to visit their nearest customer care centre for assistance.
