According to Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, the MMC for Public Safety, recent actions taken in Midrand, including the busting of a drug den, the closure of non-compliant salons, and the impounding of over 33 unroadworthy vehicles, marks the beginning of a more extensive crackdown on illegal activities in the area. “We know that most of the shops [in Midrand] are not complying with the by-laws. Some [police] collect [bribes] from those shops. So, we got a tipoff on that, even with the drugs as well. So, we got crystal meth, illegal alcohol, and cigarettes, and we also got [illegal] exchange of money.

“There is more. This is just the tip of the iceberg. We don’t really want to stop people’s business. What we say to people [is that] they must comply with the by-laws. Some of the people do not even understand what a by-law is.”

Read more: Public Safety MMC begins crusade to tackle Midrands drug problem

This initiative follows the City of Johannesburg’s Department of Public Safety hosting the #NomakanjaniManjeNamhlanje crime prevention and by-law enforcement operation in Midrand on July 8. This operation, led by Tshwaku, included search and seizure raids, the reclamation of hijacked properties, inspections for compliance in spaza shops, and actions against illegal dumping.

The operation began at the Midrand Fire Station, where Tshwaku addressed officers about their mission, emphasising the critical importance of discipline, visibility, and a zero-tolerance approach to lawlessness.

Tshwaku commended the multidisciplinary teams for their unwavering commitment to service delivery and community protection. Following the briefing, he took decisive action in Midrand, leading a rigorous enforcement effort against shops and salons that were operating illegally. Each establishment was inspected thoroughly to ensure compliance with municipal by-laws, health standards, and safety regulations.

Tshwaku confronted illegal operators, demanding proof of compliance, health certifications, and valid licenses. Those unable to meet the legal requirements faced immediate shutdowns.

Tshwaku also orchestrated the bust of a drug den in Midrand, relying on intelligence and strategic diversion tactics, which resulted in the seizure of illegal substances and the detention of suspects.

Alongside this, he impounded over 33 unroadworthy vehicles, which have been secured at the fire station. Drivers were called to account for their vehicles and will face the necessary legal and administrative consequences.

“All those who are involved in stalling cases, who are receiving bribes, must be fired or must be arrested,” said Tshwaku. “The cases are not moving at all. So, we need to investigate when someone was arrested, who the investigator was, and where the docket is. Where on earth have you heard that a docket just went missing? This is why you do not digitalise, everything is manual.”

As the #NomakanjaniManjeNamhlanje operation intensifies in Midrand, another drug dealer, disguised as a street vendor, was busted on July 9, found in possession of dagga and an unlawful firearm.

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