Several Mbombela shops owned by foreign nationals were taken by surprise when the MEC for economic development and tourism, Makhosazane Masilela, arrived on their doorsteps unannounced yesterday.

This was during a raid aimed at eradicating expired foodstuffs and inspecting regulations compliance.

Masilela was accompanied by members of the provincial police HQ and Nelspruit Police Station, as well as immigration officials of the Department of Home Affairs.

She said the raid follows ongoing health challenges experienced by tens of learners in various schools. In most cases, the learners ended up hospitalised after experiencing stomach cramps and vomiting.

Reports suggest these learners had eaten foodstuffs bought from spaza shops owned by foreign nationals.

“The issue of our children perishing from eating unhealthy and expired goods has now reached high proportions,” said Masilela.

“This has prompted us to intensify our inspections of all business premises across the province.”

During the raid, Masilela, her HOD, Immy Serakalala, and her chief director, Brenda Mabaso, personally searched through some of the shops.

Seven suspects found to be in the country illegally were arrested. Several goods were found to have expired, while some had questionable codes.

Some goods were confiscated, and a shop operating without a trading licence was shut down.

Masilela announced an interdepartmental committee to co-ordinate and lead inspections that will determine compliance with regulations and hygiene protocols while handling food.

She said the executive members of this committee were the health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, the one for education, Cathy Dlamini, the one for co-operative governance, human settlements and traditional affairs, Speed Mashilo, and herself.

Masilela said these raids would continue.