Township economy | Residents plead for strengthening of regulations

SAPS cars are seen during an inspections on spaza shops in Naledi, Soweto. AFP/Shiraaz Mohamed
JOHANNESBURG – Sharpeville residents are urging government to tighten regulations regarding spaza shop ownership.
Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile visited the area on Monday following last week’s violence and looting of foreign-owned shops.
The chaos was sparked after several children fell ill after eating food allegedly bought from the shops.
WATCH | MEC Maile assesses aftermath of spaza shops looting
Maile said government has plans in place to address the situation, but he maintains Home Affairs must tighten border control.
Residents are demanding foreign-owned spaza shops remain closed until stronger laws are implemented to empower local business owners.