The Lejweleputswa District Municipality has expressed concern over reports of threats and intimidation directed at environmental health practitioners (EHPs) conducting inspections at spaza shops within the district.

The municipality said EHPs are authorised officials mandated to protect public health and ensure compliance with health legislation, regulations and municipal by-laws. Their inspections aim to safeguard communities against health risks including unsafe food handling, unhygienic premises, expired products and pest infestations.

The EHPs conduct their work under the National Health Act, 2003 (Act No. 61 of 2003), which provides for municipal health services including food control, health surveillance of premises, waste management and water quality monitoring.

“Their work is lawful, necessary and aimed at protecting all residents equally,” the municipality stated.

“Any threats, obstruction, harassment or intimidation of municipal officials performing their duties will not be tolerated.”

The municipality warned that obstructing authorised officials from carrying out inspections may constitute an offence under applicable legislation and municipal by-laws. Those found interfering with lawful inspections may face enforcement action, including prosecution.

The district has called on the police to continue working with the municipality to ensure official safety, maintain public order, investigate reported threats and take action against individuals who intimidate municipal employees.

The Lejweleputswa District Municipality said it remains committed to fair, lawful and professional enforcement of health standards across all businesses operating within the district, regardless of ownership or nationality.

The municipality urged all business owners to cooperate fully with EHPs and address any concerns through lawful channels.