- A multidisciplinary raid targeted areas along Dr Pixley KaSeme and Anton Lembede streets.
- 5 businesses were shut down for failing to comply with municipal by-laws, business regulations, and other legislation (e.g., unsanitary conditions, illegal operations).
- 23 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested (from Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania, and China).
- The operation involved Metro Police, South African Police Service (SAPS), Department of Home Affairs, Department of Employment and Labour, Department of Health, and other agencies.
Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu noted that the action addressed community concerns about illegal retail outlets, undocumented immigration, poor hygiene, prostitution, and illegal narcotics in the CBD.
Broader Context
- This is part of ongoing operations (“Operation Gijima” and similar initiatives) to enforce by-laws, improve safety, and support legitimate businesses in the city centre.
- Earlier similar actions have included fines, closures, and arrests for non-compliance.
- Local businesses and stakeholders have called for continued protection amid crime and immigration-related tensions.
The city has stated it remains committed to sustained enforcement to clean up the CBD and ensure regulatory compliance. For the latest updates, check official eThekwini Municipality sources or recent local news.
