Members of Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality (CALM) and Gert Sibande District Municipality’s Disaster Management together with law enforcement and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) were part of an operation to enforce the National Disaster Act’s regulations.

The operation was conducted at Nhlazatshe, Tjakastad, Mooiplaas and Aramburg.

According to Mr Thapelo Phetla, spokesman for Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality, the operation consisted of roadblocks, stop-and-search operations, and the inspection of spaza shops, street vendors and supermarkets.

During the operation, several shops were closed down as they did not comply with the regulations.

Mr Phetla added that expired foods and illicit good were also found and destroyed during the operation.