Pretoria – Police have arrested 12 suspects, closed four warehouses and confiscated expired food during a surgery in western Pretoria.
Operations to prevent and combat illegal and expired consumables included the National Operating Structure and Information Structure Priority Committee on Foodborne Diseases and Illegal Trade.
Police spokesman Lt. Colonel Amanda Van Wyke said the interdisciplinary team was run on Thursday (May 15, 2025).
She said the team consists of members of South Africa's Police Service, Interior Ministry officials, labor inspectors, local government health inspectors, Tshwane Emergency Management Services and Crime Prevention Observers.
Lt. Col. Van Wyke said the operation in Pretoria West has arrested 12 suspects for violating immigration law.
“Two employers have been fined for employing these undocumented foreigners,” Lt. Col. Van Wyke said.
“Fines and notices were also issued for violations of safety and health regulations.
“In the end, the team closed four warehouses and seized a massive consignment of illegal goods and expired consumables.”
Lt. Col. Van Wyke said the operation in Pretoria West is part of ongoing multidisciplinary law enforcement operations taking place across the country.
“() South African police are encouraging all community members to form part of the fight against foodborne diseases and illegal trade by reporting alleged noncompliance with relevant authorities,” Lt. Col. Van Wyke said.
