POLOKWANE – The Polokwane CBD Business Association says it has rejected thousands of applications from foreign-owned businesses operating in and around the city that did not meet legal compliance requirements, warning that non-compliant traders are undermining law-abiding businesses and “taking away from the economy”.

The association, made up of South African and foreign-owned businesses that say they comply with South African laws, spoke out following joint operations by police, the Department of Home Affairs and other authorities in the extensions area near Westenburg on Friday.

“We are willing to work with the police to ensure that everyone doing business does so within the prescripts of the law,” one member said.

Members asked not to be named, citing fears of victimisation.

Same asylum permit number used by 12 owners

According to the association, of 30 foreign-owned shops it had checked, 12 owners from outside the SADC region were using the same asylum permit number, which it believes points to fraudulent documentation.

Shops reopen hours after operation

Many shops closed during the operation but had reopened by the afternoon, raising questions, the association said, about respect for the rule of law.

ALSO READ: Shops reopen hours after Premier-led raid in Polokwane Ext 44

Its concerns echo those of community group Winrainbow Lions in Westenburg. Chairperson Sarel Martin told Polokwane Observer that during an Easter-period operation in the Westenburg policing area, police detained more than 60 shop owners believed to be undocumented. He said they were later released after lawyers intervened and because there was no nearby refugee holding facility.

Martin further alleged that some traders were using fraudulent documents and claimed corruption among government officials was contributing to the problem. The association said it shares those concerns.

Association stresses compliant businesses

Following recent Polokwane Observer reports on the removal of undocumented foreign nationals, the association said it wanted to emphasise that it represents businesses that are fully compliant with legislation, regardless of ownership.

READ MORE: Premier and police lead raid in Polokwane Ext 44

It said compliance includes CIPC registration, a memorandum of incorporation, proof of business address, Sars registration where applicable, and employer registration for UIF and Coida.

For foreign nationals, it said compliance includes CIPC foreigner assurance, a certified passport, a beneficial ownership declaration and valid Home Affairs documentation.

“We have rejected thousands of applications from those who were simply not compliant, and we will continue assisting authorities to ensure that everyone in the city follows the law,” the association said.

The group further argued that non-compliant businesses evade tax and labour obligations, creating an uneven business environment.

Police warn against vigilantism

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers warned residents against vigilantism.

“People must not take the law into their own hands by removing undocumented foreign nationals themselves,” he said, amid reports that anti-illegal immigration groups have become increasingly active in the city.