MTHATHA, Eastern Cape – Traffic in sections of the Mthatha central business district came to a standstill this evening as informal traders staged a protest following the demolition of containers by the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality.
The disruption began after law enforcement officers, together with security agencies from the local and OR Tambo District municipalities, conducted a bylaw enforcement drive in the CBD earlier in the afternoon. Between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m., officials demolished several containers deemed to be operating illegally and obstructing public space.
In response, angry traders, including foreign nationals, took to the streets and burned tires along a major route leading to the Southernwood area and into the CBD. Fire and emergency services were deployed to extinguish the fires as commuters faced significant delays during the evening rush hour.
Traders alleged that their containers were demolished without adequate notice or alternative relocation options. Some reported being told they could only continue their businesses by erecting structures in their private yards—a solution many described as impractical.
The King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality spokesperson addressed the situation, stating that the enforcement action formed part of an ongoing effort to uphold the municipality’s gazetted informal street trading bylaws.
“We enforce different bylaws on a daily basis,” the spokesperson said. “Specifically with this one, we are removing containers or people trading where they are not supposed to be around the CBD and other areas within the municipality.”
The spokesperson emphasized that the bylaws require all informal traders operating containers to obtain formal consent or licenses from the municipality. Those targeted in the operation, the spokesperson noted, did not have such permission.
Addressing claims about foreign nationals involved in the protest, the spokesperson confirmed their presence but added that some individuals were reportedly selling illegal products, including drugs. “This is something we cannot tolerate at all as a municipality because we are also trying to fight crime, working together with the South African Police Services,” the spokesperson said.
When asked where displaced traders should relocate, the spokesperson outlined a two-step approach: traders must first consult the municipality to obtain formal licenses, and second, the municipality is working toward establishing a designated “container city” where informal businesses can operate legally. This proposal, the spokesperson noted, has been presented to council for consideration.
As of this evening, tensions remained high. Traders indicated they may pursue legal action or organize further strikes if their concerns are not addressed. The municipality reiterated its commitment to enforcing bylaws while exploring long-term solutions for informal trade management.
Residents and commuters are advised to avoid affected routes in the Mthatha CBD until the situation stabilizes.
