Illegal brothel in Halfway House allegedly sold free government condoms for R70
Executive mayor spokesperson Khathutshelo Mulaudzi said it was alarming that some individuals were exploiting a public health resource intended to save lives.
“Following [Tuesday’s] High Impact Operation in Midrand, I can confirm that our multi-disciplinary teams uncovered and confiscated approximately 84 000 boxes of government-issued condoms that were being unlawfully diverted and sold to the public.”
These were the words of Khathutshelo Mulaudzi, spokesperson for the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Sello Dada Morero.
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The operation led by MMC for Development Planning, Eunice Mgcina, was held in Halfway House, Midrand, on December 2, and saw officials close down an illegal brothel where these condoms were allegedly found.
Two unroadworthy taxis – a kombi and a venture – were also impounded by the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), along with cooking items.
Mulaudzi said these condoms were meant to be provided free of charge as part of the city’s HIV prevention programme and should never be used for profit.
“It is alarming that some individuals choose to exploit a public health resource intended to save lives. Preliminary information indicates that these condoms were being sold for around R70 per pack, which is unacceptable and goes against the very purpose of our HIV response efforts,” said Mulaudzi.
Mulaudzi added that the city was working closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all individuals responsible for this illicit trade were held accountable.
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“We will not tolerate criminal networks or opportunists who siphon off resources meant to protect the health and dignity of our residents. Recovering these stolen condoms ensures that they can no longer be used for profit at the expense of public health. I want to commend the JMPD, and all officials and community stakeholders involved.”
She said they would continue to intensify their oversight of public health commodities, strengthen enforcement operations, and ensure that every resource meant for the people of Johannesburg reaches them freely, safely, and with dignity.
“We remain firm: public health resources belong to the public, and we will protect them without compromise.”
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