Operation Gijima launches crackdown on illegal trading and by-law violations
One of the key highlights was a raid on the China Mall building along Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, where authorities detained over 60 foreign nationals for verification of their immigration status.
A major multi-disciplinary operation, dubbed Operation Gijima, was launched in Durban on Saturday, targeting illegal trading activities and breaches of municipal by-laws across the city centre.
Led by eThekwini deputy district, Commissioner Brigadier Sakhengenkosi Zuma and operational commander, Lieutenant Colonel Thobekile Mdedelwa, the initiative is said to underscore the municipality’s commitment to fast-tracking service delivery and restoring order within urban communities.
The operation, carried out in partnership with eThekwini Metro Police, the Department of Labour, Home Affairs Immigration, and private security companies, focused on dismantling illegal businesses and ensuring compliance with municipal regulations.
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One of the key highlights was a raid on the China Mall building along Dr Pixley KaSeme Street, where authorities detained over 60 foreign nationals for verification of their immigration status.
Several businesses in the area were found operating unlawfully, with some trading under asylum seeker visas that restrict them to study-only conditions.
The operations aimed to clamp down on illegal trading and enforce immigration laws to promote lawful business practices.
In addition, another raid targeted a building on Park Street, uncovering serious violations of municipal by-laws.
The property owner faces charges under Section 4 (1) of the National Building Regulations Act after it was found to have been partitioned using drywall and illegally converted into residential flats, restaurants, and a sports bar, an illegal use of the property that threatens safety and compliance standards.
Durban Metro Police’s By-Law Compliance Unit, along with the Albert Park Hawker Unit, also conducted follow-up inspections along Dr Pixley KaSeme Street (West Street) between Park Street and Joseph Nduli Street. Their focus was on businesses that had been previously ordered to close during the recent ‘Bring Back My City’ operation.
During these inspections, several businesses found operating unlawfully after being instructed to cease operations were shut down again.
Businesses that failed to comply with notices issued by the Environmental Health Department were also served additional notices and instructed to remain closed until they meet all legal requirements.
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Colonel Boysie Zungu, spokesperson for Durban Metro Police, emphasised the importance of compliance.
“All businesses, regardless of ownership, must adhere to South African laws and municipal bylaws. Continuing illegal activity will result in enforcement action, including arrests and prosecution,” he warned.
