Multiple arrests, shop closures in Eastern Cape spaza shops raid
The Chris Hani District community in the Eastern Cape has welcomed the recent shutdown of several spaza shops and the arrest of their respective owners in Swartwater.
The operation led by an integrated multi-disciplinary tea follows President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other law enforcement agencies to intensify inspections of food-related businesses to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
SPAZA SHOP OWNERS ARRESTS WELCOMED
The directive comes in response to reports of children who have tragically died, with dozens more hospitalized due to chemical poisoning from contaminated food.
Chris Hani District Commissioner, Major-General Rudolph Adolph welcomed the arrests.
“The safety of our communities, especially our children, is our top priority. As the South African Police Service (SAPS), we will continue to assert the authority of the state in ensuring the safety of our people,” he said.
MEC for Transport and Community Safety Xolile Nqatha commended the collective efforts of the multi-disciplinary team: “This operation showcases the power of collaborative efforts in addressing the issues of food safety and crime. The success of this initiative reflects the strength of integrated government intervention.”
PARENTS, COMMMUNITIES URGED TO PLAY THEIR PART
In his recent address, president Ramaphosa ordered the immediate closure of spaza shops, implicated in the deaths of children.
He also urged parents to remain vigilant, encouraging them to ensure their children consume food only from trusted and safe sources.
“Each of us needs to be better informed about the risks of pesticides and other dangerous products. Each of us needs to take responsibility for the safety and well-being of those around us, particularly the children of our nation. By working together, by enforcing the law, by being alert and responsible, we will be able to bring an end to these tragedies,” he said.
Ramaphosa outlined three critical interventions to be implemented immediately.
“Following the special meeting of Cabinet, we have decided to make the following interventions; the first intervention is to get hazardous pesticides off the street, the second critical intervention is to protect children from exposure to these substances, the third critical intervention is to prevent future outbreaks. The following measures will be implemented with immediate effect,” he said.
DO YOU THINK SUFFICIENT MEASURES ARE BEING TAKEN TO ADDRESS THE ISSUE OF FOODBORNE ILLNESSES IN OUR COMMUNITIES?
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