The City of Tshwane has vowed to clamp down on night clubs operating in violation of the municipal by-laws by shutting them down.
The stern warning was issued by Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink following the temporary closure of four drinking holes in Lynnwood and Hatfield for being non-compliant with the law.
The establishments were slapped with various fines during the anti-crime operation by the Tshwane Metro Police Department in conjunction with other stakeholders such as health and emergency services including local economic development.
Overcrowding, inadequate fire safety measures, noise pollution and the absence of necessary permits were among several violations committed by the nightclubs and bars.
Brink said the establishments will remain closed until they have rectified the issues and can demonstrate full compliance with all relevant regulations.
“The City of Tshwane urges all business owners to familiarise themselves with the applicable legislation, including by-laws, and to ensure that their establishments meet all safety and regulatory standards. The City is committed to supporting compliant businesses and fostering a safe and vibrant nightlife for all,” he said.
He emphasised that nightclubs in the city should brace themselves to be closed if they don’t comply with the law.
“The message we are sending out is clear: Comply or close your business,” he said.
The operation was aimed to ensure that businesses comply with the City’s by-laws and safety regulations, as well as national building legislation.
Brink said: “These regulations are in place to protect patrons, employees and the surrounding communities from potential hazards and disturbances,”he said.
He said the City would conduct regular inspections and take necessary actions against non-compliant establishments.
Meanwhile, TMPD spokesperson senior superintendent Isaac Mahamba said several joint operations were conducted to check vehicle and driver fitness to ensure compliance and to eliminate criminal elements and criminal activities.
“During the operations, drivers’ alcohol limits are checked, vehicles are inspected for roadworthiness, documentation for drivers and public transport vehicles are inspected, stop and search for vehicles, drivers, passengers, pedestrians and bystanders are conducted,”he said.
A total of 18 people were arrested including, six illegal immigrants, one reckless and negligent driving and 11 drunk drivers.
At least 150 vehicles were searched and inspected, 50 people were searched and eight Aarto infringement fines issued.
At the roadside check operations, 80 heavy motor vehicles were inspected, 47 light motor vehicles were inspected, 76 vehicles were searched and 139 people were searched.
Mahamba said: “A total of 99 infringement fines were issued for various offences.
The inner-city public Transport Road operations resulted in the impoundment of 17 Taxis that did not comply with the rules and regulations of the road.”
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