A popular local chisanyama in Mamelodi West, De Palace Skeiff, was demolished on Thursday, 23 April 2026, by officials from the City of Tshwane, sparking concern among residents and informal traders in the area.
According to community sources, the structure was removed during a law enforcement operation targeting illegal or noncompliant businesses. Authorities have recently intensified efforts to shut down and demolish structures that do not meet municipal regulations, including those built without proper permits or on restricted land.
Eyewitnesses said officials arrived early in the day, accompanied by metro police, and began dismantling the chisanyama. “It all happened very fast. People were watching, but there was nothing we could do,” said one community member who lives nearby.
It is alleged that the structure is built illegally, violates city bylaws, and operates without proper licenses. Similar operations in Mamelodi have involved the removal of illegally erected structures and businesses operating in violation of city by-laws.
Some residents expressed mixed reactions. While a few supported the enforcement of regulations, others raised concerns about livelihood losses. “These places help people survive. Now someone has lost their income overnight,” Mr Joel Setlabe said.
The demolition forms part of broader enforcement campaigns by the City of Tshwane aimed at restoring order in informal trading spaces and addressing safety concerns.
The Tshwane Executive Mayor recently held a meeting with informal traders in Tshwane House, where municipal by-laws were explained, and traders were warned about the consequences of non-compliance.
Traders were also informed that those operating without proper permits will face consequences for their actions.
