Illegal Traders Evicted Along R511 by SANRAL and Madibeng Departments

In a coordinated operation, SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency) and several departments from Madibeng municipality evicted and confiscated the goods of illegal traders who had set up along the R511. This enforcement action, which took place on Wednesday 24 July 2024, involved the Department of Human Settlement, Department of Waste Management, and the Department of Tourism, Agriculture and Economic Development (LED), with support from Madibeng’s Traffic Department and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The R511, a national road under SANRAL’s jurisdiction, has strict regulations prohibiting unauthorized stalls or structures. Designated areas for street trading have been established by the LED Department, and traders must be registered to operate legally.

Municipal officials had repeatedly informed the traders about the by-laws and issued multiple warnings. Notices to vacate were served, but compliance was minimal. Despite a forced removal in August 2023, the traders quickly reestablished their stalls. Following further notices, today’s operation resulted in the confiscation and destruction of their goods at the Madibeng solid waste landfill site.

In a related operation, the municipal plot opposite Hartmark, plagued by illegal recycling and squatting, was cleared. Barplats’ Crocodile River Mine assisted in removing rubble, structures, and dense vegetation that had facilitated criminal activities, including frequent break-ins at nearby homes.

This concerted effort aims to enforce regulations, ensure public safety, and maintain order along the R511 corridor.