Media statement: KwaDukuza Municipality hosts a law enforcement operation, leading to the arrest of six illegal immigrants




KwaDukuza Municipality is working with various law enforcement agencies to turn the tide against criminality and violation of its bylaws within the KwaDukuza Central Business District.


This after it seized counterfeit goods amounting to R 1500 000.00 last week during a multi-pronged operation with various state agencies and private security companies.

Five illegal immigrants were arrested. One suspect was charged for possession of an unlicensed firearm with six rounds of live ammunition.

One of the suspects was found in possession of two (2) red and white capsules and five pieces of crystal meth. Another suspect was charged with theft as he was in possession of various stolen goods. On a separate account, a suspect was arrested for attempted murder.


Four vehicles were impounded after being found abandoned on the roadside by illegal mechanics including 31 notices issued for various road traffic violations. The operation impounded a Mercedes Benz, a Toyota Hilux, a Toyota Quantam and an Opel Corsa.


This operation dealt with non-compliance of building regulations, protecting our country’s revenue base by removing counterfeit goods and undocumented immigrants.


A total of five retail establishments were visited for compliance checks. Of the five, four were operating without a Business License, one business was closed for gross noncompliance, unhygienic conditions, and sale of expired goods.


A total of 8598 goods were seized from various establishments which included lethal weapons, cigarettes and household necessities amounting to R 1500 000.00. All expired goods were removed from the shop.

Transgressions were documented and will be followed up in due course to ensure compliance with the Business Act.


There were four (4) problem buildings inspected during the operation. Some of the buildings were found to be in state of dilapidation and decay. These buildings will also be served with the necessary notices for compliance in terms of the Problem Building Bylaws and will be monitored closely to ensure compliance.


There were seven buildings inspected. Five were found to be without approved plans and illegal alterations. These buildings will be issued with contravention notices.


Total of seven disconnections for illegal connections and tampering were undertaken.

 

Three residential fines were issued to the value of R 36 645.39. Three commercial fines were issued to the value of R 73 291.53. One business tampering which amounted to R 18 367.80. The municipality was able to clampdown perpetrators who continue to abuse municipal infrastructure.  The fines totalled an amount of R 128 304.72.


The operation also included inspections to liquor establishments and found four to be compliant. Compliance efforts further resulted in the closure of eight (08) unlicensed liquor premises, inspections of 28 formal businesses and 18 informal businesses, and oversight of second-hand dealers and firearm compliance.


The KwaDukuza Municipality extends its gratitude to the dedicated officers who took the time to be part of the law enforcement blitz and it recognized that a lot is yet to be done working in collaboration with enforcement agencies. We want to build safer communities and crime free society.


We will continue to adopt a zero-tolerance approach, and we will direct our responses to increasing reports of by-law violations, illicit activities and blatant disregard for municipal regulations.


Such operations send a clear and strong message to anyone who intends to undermine the law.


Operational activities were extensive and deliberate. A total of 318 individuals, 52 motor vehicles, and 25 premises were searched through 31 stop-and-search operations. In addition, 28 high-visibility patrols, 22 vehicle patrols, and 19 foot patrols were conducted to reinforce visibility and deterrence.


KwaDukuza Municipality will continue to implement targeted operations to ensure that criminality in all its forms is confronted decisively and that those who undermine the law are held accountable.


A total of 128 members formed part of the operation. The enforcement blitz involved the following agencies:


·      KZN Department of Economic Development & Tourism (Business Regulations Unit)

·      SARS Customs Unit Durban

·      Department of Home Affairs – Immigration Unit 

·      KZN Liquor Authority

·      ILembe District Municipality – Environmental Health Unit 

·      KDM Community Safety Units (Crime Prevention, Traffic and Fire and Emergencies) 

·      KDM Economic Development and Planning Units (Development Enforcement, Building Inspectorate, Business Licensing and Outdoor Advertisement)

·      South African Police Services from six stations within the District.

·      Office of the Lower Tugela Sheriff.

·      SAPS Illicit Goods Unit Durban

·      Department of Labour


Ends


Issued by the Office of the Municipal Manager

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