, Gauteng – 1 May 2026 – In a bold move sparking nationwide debate, prominent activists Phakeluthakathi, Zandile Dabula, and Xolani Khumalo have announced plans to close all foreign-owned spaza shops starting in Voslorus. The decision follows the mysterious disappearance of local man Mazwi Ndlovu, 34, whose vanishing has ignited fury over alleged criminal activities at these informal outlets.
Mazwi, a father of two from Voslorus Ext 3, was last seen purchasing snacks at a spaza shop owned by foreign nationals on 28 April. Witnesses reported him entering the premises around 8 PM, but he never emerged. His phone has been off since, and family members accuse shop owners of withholding information during police inquiries. “Mazwi went in alive and hasn’t come out. We demand answers now,” pleaded his sister, Nomvula Ndlovu, amid growing community protests.
The trio of activists – known for their vocal stance on economic empowerment and crime – rallied supporters at a packed Voslorus community hall yesterday. “These spaza shops are crime dens selling poison to our children and now swallowing our people whole,” thundered Phakeluthakathi, flanked by Dabula and Khumalo. They plan “Operation Clean Sweep,” targeting non-compliant shops from tomorrow, with community patrols enforcing closures until owners produce valid permits and cooperate with investigations.
Local police confirmed an ongoing missing persons probe but urged calm, warning against vigilantism. SAPS spokesperson Capt. Thabo Mthembu stated, “We are investigating all leads, including the spaza shop. Taking the law into your hands is illegal and dangerous.”
The announcement taps into simmering tensions over foreign dominance in South Africa’s informal trade sector, where spaza shops have faced scrutiny for food poisoning scandals and illicit dealings. Critics fear escalation into xenophobic violence, while supporters hail it as justice for overlooked communities.
As Voslorus braces for action, the nation watches: Will this spark a broader crackdown, or fuel division?