Despite a recent operation by the TMPD to remove illegal traders and structures along Solomon Mahlangu and Delmas Road in Pretoria East, the problem has resurfaced.

Ward 47 councillor Lida Erasmus said illegal trading and settlements have been an ongoing challenge in the area, posing both safety and hygiene risks.

“It’s been quite a while that we’ve had these illegal structures and traders all over,” she said.

“They cause a mess, dump refuse into stormwater drains, and some individuals jump over fences.”

Erasmus said it is a risk for both the community of Welriet and for the people staying in the illegal structures because there is no water, toilets, or electricity.

She confirmed that the most recent removal operation took place on October 23, following numerous complaints from residents about noise, litter, and possible by-law infringements.

“Residents have been complaining for months,” she added. “Some of these traders sell food without compliance certificates, which makes it a health concern too.”

Erasmus urged residents to continue reporting illegal trading activities and to avoid buying from unlicensed vendors.

“This isn’t about being heartless,” she said.

“It’s about keeping our neighbourhoods clean, safe, and compliant with the law.”

However, residents say the relief was short-lived. Within days, many of the same traders returned to their spots.

Shaun Fouché, Public Relations Officer for the non-profit company that manages security in Welriet, Welriet NPC, said the issue is becoming a cycle that’s difficult to break.

“They stand against the community’s walls, make fires, and use the walls as urinals. It’s a serious health hazard,” Fouché explained.

“It’s illegal, but if you allow one to stay, it just grows and grows. The real issue is that as long as people in the community buy from them, they’ll never leave.”

Fouché added that TMPD fines are too low to deter repeat offenders.

“After a few fines, they just pay around R300 to get their goods back,” she said.

“The fines need to be high enough to make it unprofitable to keep returning. Right now, it pays them to break the law.”

Both Erasmus and Fouché agree that a long-term solution will require collaboration between the metro, enforcement agencies, and residents themselves.

“If the community stops supporting illegal traders and the city enforces stricter penalties, we’ll start seeing change,” Fouché said.

The TMPD had not responded to a request for comment by the time of publication.

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