Cullinan Police and health inspectors embark on a shop compliance operation

Several shops in the Cullinan area were visited and found in contravention of the Consumer Protection Act last week.

The Cullinan Police, in conjunction with the Tshwane Metro Police and health inspectors, embarked on a shop compliance operation on Tuesday, March 15.

The operation followed several reported complaints of expired goods and foods sold by the local shops.

Fines in excess of R20 000 were issued during the combined operation.

Fines were among other things issued for wrongfully and intentionally handling or permitting food to be handled at a food premises of which a certificate of acceptability has not been issued.

During the process, all expired foods were also removed from the shelves.

The police provided support to health inspectors by ensuring the execution of the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008 (CPA), which aims to promote an accessible and sustainable marketplace for consumer products and services.

“The purpose thereof is to establish national norms and standards related to consumer protection, to provide for improved standards of consumer information as well as the promotion of the social well-being of consumers and prevent them from exploitation or harm,” said Sgt Connie Moganedi, corporate media spokesperson for the Cullinan Police.

“Cullinan Police urge the community to continue to report shops which do not comply with CPA or sells expired goods,” Sgt Moganedi concluded.