NHLANGANO – A joint compliance operation in Nhlangano has uncovered expired food, unlabelled stock, unlicensed trading and immigration violations at dozens of retail shops.
The two-day crackdown saw 94 businesses inspected and 37 operators charged for various offences, as authorities intensified efforts to enforce laws governing businesses and employment.
On Wednesday, 31 businesses were visited, resulting in 13 operators being charged, while yesterday’s inspections covered 63 businesses, with 24 traders charged. The operation forms part of a 60-day nationwide compliance campaign led by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, working with Commerce, Health, the Eswatini Revenue Service, Nhlangano Town Council and the Royal Eswatini Police Service.
Officials said the initial phase on Tuesday uncovered three immigration breaches, five public health violations and five businesses trading without valid licences. Inspectors later focused on retail establishments, particularly foreign-owned businesses, checking immigration documents, food safety standards and trading licences.
Task team Manager Gcwalisile Mngometulu said some traders lacked residence permits, while others were allegedly using permits belonging to other people.
Confiscated goods were handed to the town council for destruction, while offenders were charged and ordered to pay fines at the police station. Officials said the nationwide operation will continue for the next two to three months.
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