Kimberley: The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape SAPS, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, alongside key figures such as MEC Bentley Vass and members of the Executive Council, led a series of inspections targeting illicit foodstuff in the Frances Baard District. The operations were focused on tuckshops in the greater Kimberley area.
According to South African Police Service, the operations commenced with teams from various departments including the Office of the Premier, SAPS, Department of Transport, Safety and Liaison, and others, working under the guidance of MEC Bentley Vass and Lieutenant General Otola. Their mission was to ensure compliance among tuckshops, particularly those owned by foreign nationals, in areas like Galeshewe, Kimberley, and Roodepan.
The inspections revealed that out of 33 tuckshops inspected, only seven met compliance standards. The remaining 26 were shut down due to violations such as lacking valid licenses and maintaining unhygienic conditions. Confiscated items included
expired food, damaged tins, and rotten vegetables. Additionally, nine undocumented individuals were detained, one person was arrested for riotous behavior, and three fines were issued.
Authorities urge residents to be vigilant when purchasing food, advising them to check expiry dates, the condition of packaging, and the cleanliness of shops. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enforce food safety regulations across the Northern Cape.
These operations will continue throughout the province to combat the sale of expired and contaminated foodstuff and to ensure compliance with safety standards.