Aware of various by-law infringements in President Park, Johannesburg Metro Police Department’s (JMPD) spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla said they will conduct operations across the city to address issues of this nature. However, Fihla did not give time frames as to when they are likely to carry out these operations on the corner of Dale and Modderfontein roads.

Fihla was responding to the article, President Park resident is wary of growing number of vendors, [Week ending August 8], when Malcolm James raised concerns about increasing vendors in that intersection to the paper.

Read more: President Park resident is wary of growing number of vendors

Fihla said that the JMPD is now aware of the specific complaint regarding vendors at the intersection of Dale and Modderfontein roads, and will investigate the matter. “We rely on residents, and media outlets like yours, to bring these issues to our attention, so that we can take appropriate action. The sale of livestock, such as sheep, is strictly prohibited on public roads and at intersections. This is a violation of city by-laws and poses significant public health and safety risks.” He added that it is important to note that trading right at an intersection is totally prohibited, even if an informal trader has a permit.

When asked what action will be taken by authorities when they conduct the operation, should vendors be found not compliant and without trading permits, he said: “Actions may include issuing fines for non-compliance with the City of Johannesburg’s by-laws, confiscating goods, and, in severe cases, impounding any illegally parked vehicles or stalls. We also work with other relevant departments to ensure a co-ordinated response.”

He said the JMPD is committed to enforcing these by-laws to ensure fair and organised trading for all. He added that their officers are trained to enforce the by-laws, as the city has a specific informal trading policy that outlines the process for obtaining permits. “We work to enforce the regulations of that policy. Informal traders must operate only in designated areas and with valid permits.”

James was contacted again on August 11, but he said he was not optimistic that these operations would happen. “I first contacted [JMPD] on May 3, and did not get a positive response. I called again on July 31, and was provided a reference number, and told that they would dispatch officers to sort it out. They didn’t. So, what has changed since I last reported, and was promised that they would sort it out?”

He said JMPD officers were aware of what was happening, since they conducted roadblocks, and assisted with traffic flow at the intersection during peak hours.

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