The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) implores the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and the Department of Home Affairs to take decisive action against the growing wave of illegal informal trade engulfing Johannesburg’s streets and undermining law and order.
Areas such as the CBD, Fordsburg, Hillbrow, Yeoville and Berea have turned into unregulated marketplaces where traders operate without permits or documentation.
Sidewalks and public spaces are taken over, creating serious health, safety and economic challenges.
Although raids occasionally take place – such as the recent Fordsburg operation where counterfeit goods worth millions of rand were seized – law enforcement is not consistent.
Traders simply resume operations again soon after.
The Freedom Front Plus recognises the value of informal trade, provided it complies with the relevant legislation. Currently, law-abiding traders and taxpayers are getting the short end of the stick, while undocumented foreign traders are operating unchecked.
The Department of Home Affairs’ failure to control illegal immigration directly contributes to this crisis.
The Freedom Front Plus calls on the Johannesburg Metro to consistently enforce trade bylaws, collaborate with Home Affairs to verify traders’ documentation, and ensure fair protection for South African traders who operate legally and adhere to the rules.
When all traders comply with regulations, it creates a fair trading environment where street vendors and established businesses can thrive alike.
Without it, impunity arises, harming legitimate traders while undermining the Metro’s service delivery and development.
