City of Tshwane officials and law enforcement agencies discovered an illegal mortuary operating inside a spaza shop at eNkangala on Wednesday during a joint by-law, Immigration Act, and Labour Relations Act enforcement operation. Authorities also uncovered illegally constructed backrooms, workers hiding in ceilings to evade arrest, and unauthorized electricity connections that prompted Eskom to disconnect power at the sites.
Enforcement Operations Uncover Multiple By-Law Breaches at eNkangala Spaza Shops
Law enforcement teams visited several spaza shops across the eNkangala area on Wednesday as part of a multi-agency compliance drive. According to Tshwane mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, officials were shocked to find a mortuary operating simultaneously with a spaza shop. The mortuary had continued running despite a previous prohibition order. “We have once again issued a prohibition notice and shut down the business,” mayor Moya stated, adding that the spaza shop has also been closed.
During the sweep, authorities encountered various compliance failures. Workers without proper legal documentation attempted to evade arrest by hiding in ceilings and other parts of the shops. Officials closed another shop, arrested staff members who failed to produce valid immigration documentation, and had electricity disconnected. Power utility Eskom cut power supplies at shops found to have connected to the grid illegally. Additionally, inspectors discovered illegally constructed backrooms situated behind foreign-owned shops in parts of eNkangala.
Did You Know? Authorities discovered an unauthorized mortuary operating simultaneously inside a functioning spaza shop in eNkangala, which had continued its operations in direct violation of a prior prohibition order.
Mayor Moya Warns Non-Compliant Businesses Face Immediate Shutdowns
The City of Tshwane has adopted a strict stance regarding commercial properties operating outside municipal by-laws and national legislation. Mayor Moya emphasized the administration’s zero-tolerance approach in a published statement. “Establishments that do not comply will be closed,” mayor Moya said in an X post addressing the crackdown.
The operation highlights ongoing regulatory challenges involving mixed-use commercial spaces and labor practices in local neighborhoods. Law enforcement agencies continue to target businesses that bypass safety regulations, zoning laws, and employment standards. Further inspections across the municipality remain a distinct possibility as local authorities maintain pressure on unregulated commercial activities.
What May Happen Next for Non-Compliant Businesses in Tshwane
Frequently Asked Questions
What illegal business was found inside the spaza shop?
Authorities discovered an unauthorized mortuary operating inside a spaza shop at eNkangala.
What action did the City of Tshwane take against the mortuary?
According to Tshwane mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya, officials issued a prohibition notice, shut down the mortuary, and closed the spaza shop.
Why did Eskom disconnect electricity at certain shops?
Eskom disconnected electricity at the shops after authorities found they had connected to the power grid illegally.
?What measures do you think local authorities should take to prevent businesses from operating illegal facilities inside retail spaces?
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