EAST LONDON - Spaza shop owners in the Buffalo City Metro were in for a big surprise as police start to clamp down on illegal goods.
The influx of counterfeit goods and fake foods alleged to have claimed the lives of children, led to the joint operation to ensure compliance with the Metro's trading by-laws.
READ: Sactwu concerned over counterfeit goods in the country
Authorities had to step in after reports came in that residents were forcefully removing expired and illegal goods from East London shops.
Law enforcement agencies had their hands full with some shop owners resisting arrest.
Buffalo City Mayor Princess Faku has lauded the efforts of the provincial security cluster, the various departments of the municipality and Home Affairs.
The clamping down of businesses selling expired or illegal goods is seen by authorities in the Metro as a huge turning point in ensuring that those who are in business have the responsibility to not cause any harm to communities that support them.
*eNCA's Ronald Masinda reports.