JMPD defends enforcement action against informal traders on Winnie Mandela Drive
JMPD cracks down on informal traders outside Fourways Mall, citing by-law breaches. But is it a fair game, or a blow to livelihoods?
The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has defended its decision to confiscate goods from informal traders on Winnie Mandela Drive outside Fourways Mall on November 19, citing routine by-law compliance and regulation of informal trading on public roads.
According to Xolani Fihla, JMPD spokesperson, the enforcement operation was conducted in line with the City of Johannesburg’s Informal Trading By-laws and provincial legislation, which restricts or prohibits trading on major provincial roads such as Winnie Mandela Drive.
Read more: City resumes informal trading permit registration as Fourways traders fight for right to trade
“The JMPD’s sustained focus on this area is linked to a broader, ongoing effort to address by-law infringements, maintain safety, and manage traffic congestion in the Fourways area, often in response to community and ward councillor concerns,” Fihla said.
The JMPD claims to have issued verbal warnings to traders in the week leading up to the operation, allowing them to pack up, and is committed to ensuring that enforcement actions follow due process and do not unfairly impact livelihoods.
He said traders are required to register and possess a trader permit issued by the Department of Economic Development (DED) to trade legally in designated areas.
Also read: Fourways illegal traders and settlements in spotlight
“Those removed from illegal spots are directed to apply for a permit and trading stall in a designated market or trading area through the DED’s application process.”
Fihla said JMPD is working with departments such as Economic Development to find long-term solutions, and a recent High Court judgment has directed the city to expedite the verification and registration of traders.
Blessing Mlambo, one of the affected traders, expressed frustration after his goods were confiscated and he was unable to retrieve them from the JMPD offices in Johannesburg Central Business District.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by informal traders in Johannesburg, who often struggle to access designated trading areas and comply with by-laws.
Fihla has emphasised their commitment as the Metro police to community outreach programmes to educate traders about their rights and obligations under the city’s by-laws.
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