IN a raid that caught their targets totally unprepared, authorities on Tuesday bust into four adjacent upper floor units at the Bay Plaza building in the Richards Bay CBD.
The early morning swoop came after repeated requests and warnings to the occupants, who not only failed to pay hefty rent arrears but who had also let the premises deteriorate into a filthy slum state.
Illegal activities such as drug dealing and prostitution have also been linked to the locations and the Richards Bay CPF had long requested a ‘clean-up’ operation.
Acting on behalf of the owner, agents for the properties enlisted the help of a private security company who attached all property found, in the presence of police officers.
Immigration officials detained three foreign nationals on scene, one of whom was restrained when he attempted to flee.
Members of the Empangeni K9 Dog Unit with a sniffer dog searched the premises and a bag of dagga was found in one of the rooms.
City Health Department officials were also on the scene, appalled at the filthy and unhealthy conditions, especially in a ‘restaurant kitchen’ and a hairdressing salon.
An inspection of the premises revealed ‘rooms within rooms’ many of which contained beds and mattresses strewn across grossly filthy floors.
Illegal wiring connections posed major safety risks, while power had also been dangerously rigged to other parts of the building.
One secluded inner room boasted an apparent place of traditional worship and healing, with powders and potions in evidence.
