The JB Marks Local Municipality, together with various community role-players, cracked down on small-business operators who did not comply with legislation this past Friday, August 14 in Potchefstroom.

Mr Pitso Collen Mofokeng, Director of the Department of Community Safety and Transport Management at JB Marks Local Municipality, led the inspection team, which included the police and various municipal departments and units. They recorded several operational successes, including the detention of four foreign nationals for further verification of their documentation and compliance status.

Following the inspection, several compliance concerns were highlighted. Of particular concern was the finding that only one of the 12 premises inspected reportedly had a valid Certificate of Acceptability.

“The team also identified illegal water and electricity connections, non-compliant business activities, and other regulatory violations. In addition, officials from the Fire Safety Section issued notices to 15 businesses,” added Jeanette Tshite, spokesperson for the JB Marks Local Municipality.

“These findings highlight the need for stronger enforcement measures, including the imposition of fines, the closure of non-compliant premises where warranted, and appropriate corrective action,” she added.

The team also raised concerns regarding the status of foreign nationals found to be operating without the required documentation.

Officials also emphasised the importance of verifying compliance before allowing premises that had been closed during the inspection to reopen.

Looking ahead, the debriefing focused on the need for stronger coordination and continued participation by all relevant municipal departments and enforcement agencies, including Traffic Services, Municipal Health, Water, Electricity, Environmental Management, and Consumer Affairs.

During the inspectorate operation, a group of local transport operators involved in delivering goods purchased from shops also raised concerns about competition from foreign-owned businesses. They alleged that some operators were attracting customers by offering lower prices. The matter was noted for further consideration within the relevant regulatory and local economic development frameworks.

“The JB Marks Local Municipality Multisectoral Inspectorate Team remains committed to ensuring that businesses operate within the law and that compliance, public safety, public health, and fair business practices are upheld across the Municipality,” stated Tshite.