The comprehensive Joint Blitz Inspection Compliance Campaign continued during Thuntsha Lerole on Friday 18 October, in the Moses Kotane Local Municipality coordinated by the Department of Employment and Labour. The campaign targeted outlets in the Manamakgoteng, Mogwase, and Moruleng areas to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Key stakeholders in the joint inspection included DEDECT’s Consumer Affairs, Business Regulations, and Liquor Regulations divisions, alongside Municipal Health Services, the North West Gambling Board, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, Municipal Waste Management, SAPS, the Department of Agriculture (Veterinary Health Practitioner), and Municipal Public Safety.
Consumer Affairs inspected seven businesses during the campaign. Of these, four were found compliant, while three were non-compliant, violating the Consumer Protection Act 68 of 2008, specifically Section 23 (Disclosure of Prices of Goods or Services) and Section 24 (Product Labeling and Trade Descriptions). Non-compliant businesses were advised to comply with consumer legislation, and follow-up inspections will be conducted.
Liquor Regulation inspectors visited several liquor premises, noting widespread ignorance of regulations. Common violations included failure to keep records, failure to display licenses, renting premises without board approval, and selling takeaway alcohol in premises licensed for on-site consumption. Compliance notices were issued, and owners were guided on the necessary steps to achieve compliance. SAPS and the department will conduct follow-up inspections.
The North West Gambling Board issued fines totalling R6, 000 for possession of illegal gambling machines, confiscating 16 machines valued at an estimated R24, 000.
Municipal Waste Management safely collected and disposed of condemned foodstuffs using specialized equipment, in accordance with the National Environmental Management: Waste Act No. 59 of 2008.
Moses Kotane Municipal Health Services issued fines totalling R41, 500 for violations of the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics, and Disinfectants Act 54 of 1972, Regulation 146 of 2010. Shops were found selling expired and unsafe foodstuffs, which were promptly removed from shelves. Additionally, two shops were closed due to unhygienic conditions and will only reopen after proper cleaning and re-inspection. Most businesses lacked Certificates of Acceptability and vector control measures.
The government remains committed to working with law enforcement and regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. Communities are encouraged to act responsibly and report any non-compliance to the appropriate authorities.