Illegal Food Trade Busted in Pretoria West: 12 Arrested, Warehouses Closed

A major police operation in Pretoria West has led to the arrest of 12 undocumented immigrants and the seizure of expired and counterfeit food products. The raid, carried out by a multi-agency task team, targeted illegal trade and unsafe food practices that continue to put public health at risk.

Led by the South African Police Service (SAPS), the task force included officials from the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Emergency Services, municipal health inspectors, labour officials, and local Crime Prevention Wardens. Together, they searched several warehouses and shops operating in violation of health and legal standards.

Four warehouses were closed down during the raid. Officers discovered expired food and counterfeit products stored in hazardous conditions. SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk confirmed that two business owners were fined for hiring undocumented foreign workers.

“This operation is part of our broader effort to crack down on illegal businesses and protect public health,” said van Wyk. She added that employers must be held responsible for violating immigration and food safety laws.

The raid comes amid growing concerns over the widespread sale of unsafe food, especially in poor communities where informal shops often ignore health regulations. Many spaza shops and small traders fail to meet basic hygiene standards, exposing consumers to the risk of foodborne illness.

Earlier this year, Minister of Trade and Industry Parks Tau warned Parliament about the dangers posed by expired food and counterfeit goods. He pointed to poor storage, lack of inspections, and inadequate hygiene practices as key factors behind recent cases of food poisoning.

In response, the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) launched a Priority Committee to tackle foodborne illness and the illegal trade of consumer goods. The goal is to restore public trust and improve oversight of informal and unregulated businesses.

Government has also urged communities to play an active role in stopping these harmful practices. Citizens are encouraged to report the sale of expired or fake goods to the National Consumer Commission by calling 012 065 1940. Reporting is free and confidential.

SAPS has called on the public to remain alert. “We need the community’s support to report businesses putting lives at risk,” said van Wyk. “Together, we can protect our neighborhoods from dangerous and illegal operations.”

The arrests and penalties issued in Pretoria West are part of a national campaign to address illegal immigration, labour exploitation, and food safety violations. Authorities hope that holding employers accountable will discourage the hiring of undocumented workers and the sale of unsafe products.

As more raids are planned in other regions, SAPS and its partners are committed to building safer communities through strict enforcement, community reporting, and better education about food safety.

To report unsafe food or counterfeit products, contact the National Consumer Commission at 012 065 1940. Your report could save a life.

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Sourced:Gauteng.net

Picture: Tshwane Talks