Salons with churches at the back, illegal brothels and backrooms were put on notice during a recent by-law enforcement operation in the inner-city led by the Mayor and Chairperson for the Bad Buildings Committee.

Two salons on Robert Sobukwe Street were shut down for being non-compliant, and upon further inspection of the first salon, officials discovered an unauthorised church operating behind it.

MMC for Corporate and Shared Services, and Chairperson for the Bad Buildings Committee, Flora Monama, said that they have disconnected both the water and electricity supply.

The MMC insisted that the city’s efforts are not meant to harass or disrupt business, but to ensure economic growth is done safely and legally.

“Our operations are not aimed at destroying businesses or discouraging trade; these inspections ensure that all establishments, from informal traders to large retailers, remain compliant with our municipal by-laws. Ensuring all necessary paperwork is in order prevents unnecessary disruptions to business operations,” Monama said.

From Sunnyside, officials made their way to an illegal brothel in Hatfield, found to be operating in total defiance of municipal by-laws.

“A thorough inspection revealed gross non-compliance, including incorrect zoning, lack of approved building plans, no valid trading licence, and failure to comply with essential fire safety standards. The property has also accumulated R3.2-million in municipal arrears,” Monama said.

The following steps were taken: fire and health prohibition notices were served on site, a R5 000 fine was issued for operating without a Certificate of Acceptability, and water and electricity supply was disconnected, uncovering an illegal water connection in the process.

“Inside, we found multiple rooms, most equipped with jacuzzis, charging R1 800 per hour. This brothel has operated for years without valid documentation, a violation that cannot be overlooked,” Monama said.

“While we welcome business in Tshwane, non-compliance will not be tolerated in our city. All businesses must comply with municipal bylaws. We will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour,” the MMC warned.

The following day, several complaints were received regarding a property in Garsfontein in violation of several regulations.

The mayor said the violations include “accumulation of waste, fighting and excessive noise by occupants”. The property has an outstanding municipal electricity debt of R169 000.

Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya said three people were found on the premises, but there are reportedly an estimated 12 people living there, including a child.

“The occupants also disclosed that they use drugs. The city’s social workers will assist those in need with the appropriate support and services,” said the mayor.

She said the city will continue to take action against owners of abandoned or problematic properties in accordance with municipal by-laws.

“Council recently approved the Problem Building and Property Management By-Law. This strengthens the city’s ability to protect communities against problematic landlords.”

Watch here: https://x.com/nasiphim/status/2092567802087346192/video/1.

Today, we joined the City’s #ReASpana operation in Garsfontein. We were alerted by concerned community members about a poorly maintained property.

The problematic property has an accumulation of waste, fighting and excessive noise by occupants. The property has an outstanding… pic.twitter.com/Q3tNhzuyGY — Dr Nasiphi Moya (@nasiphim) August 26, 2026

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