ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
INANDA CLEAN-UP BLITZ NETS ARRESTS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS, HEAVY FINES AND ILLEGAL GOODS
A high-impact eThekwini Municipality enforcement operation has cracked down on illegal trading, undocumented foreign nationals and by-law offenders in Inanda’s Ward 55, resulting in R93 000 in fines, 19 arrests and the seizure of illicit cigarettes.
The Operation Good Hope blitz, conducted from 20 to 23 July 2026, forms part of the Municipality’s ongoing efforts to restore order, improve public safety and protect compliant businesses.
Led by the Supply Side and Area Based Operations Directorate, the four-day operation yielded notable results, with several enforcement actions taken against businesses found to be operating in contravention of municipal regulations.
As part of the operation, the Business Licensing Division issued a fine of R70 000 to a business found trading without a valid permit, reinforcing the Municipality’s commitment to ensuring that all commercial activities are conducted within the framework of applicable legislation.
Fire and Emergency Services officials also conducted compliance inspections and issued a fine of R23 000 to a business operator who failed to meet essential fire safety requirements. Violations included operating without a fire extinguisher and failing to service existing fire safety equipment.
The operation further targeted immigration-related offences and the illegal trade of contraband goods. Working in collaboration with national law enforcement agencies, officials arrested 19 undocumented foreign nationals in the Umshayazafe area during the week-long enforcement drive.
In addition, officers confiscated 15 packets of illicit cigarettes during street-level inspections, dealing a blow to illegal trading activities that undermine compliant businesses and pose risks to consumers.
Ward 55 leadership applauded the collaborative efforts of the various law enforcement agencies involved, commending their commitment to improving safety, maintaining order, and addressing unlawful activities within the community.
Operation Good Hope continues to demonstrate the Municipality’s determination to enforce by-laws, support law-abiding businesses, and eliminate illegal activities across the city. Residents and business owners are urged to comply with all municipal regulations, as high-visibility enforcement operations will continue throughout eThekwini to ensure adherence to licensing, safety, and trading requirements.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
