The Metro police vowed to crack down on bylaw violators this festive season.
Metro Police chief superintendent, Wayne Minnaar, told Northcliff Melville Times that a lot of work still needs to be done this festive season regarding laws and bylaws.
His statement came after informal traders on Beyers Naudé Drive in Roosevelt Park were dispersed as they were violating bylaws.
Minaar said street traders are not an issue if they are not in violation of any bylaws such as selling on a pavement that’s too narrow, near an ATM, outside an entrance, church or council building, to mention a few.
He said they are not only cracking down on traders violating bylaws but also on those who sell illegal goods such as cigarettes and knock-off clothing.
In addition to trading, Minnaar explained that they will also come down hard on those contravening bylaws regarding fireworks.
“We will be cracking down on the sale of fireworks; those who sell fireworks to minors (that’s illegal) as well as when residents can use fireworks.”
He said the only time Joburg residents will be permitted to use fireworks is on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Times when residents are permitted to use fireworks:
- Christmas Eve – 7pm to 10pm
- New Year’s Eve – 11pm to 1am
- New Year’s Day – 7pm to 10pm.
Minnaar added that residents should consider animals when using fireworks and said no person is allowed to use fireworks around animals. He said they can only be used in designated areas.
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