Inspection subject pulls a gun at labour inspectors
The Department of Employment and Labour in Gauteng has condemned in the strongest terms the action of a subject to inspection of pulling out a gun at labour inspectors on Tuesday.
As a result of the incident, the department has also opened a case of pointing a firearm against the individual at the Hennopspark Centurion, franchise of Vetkoek Maleis who pulled a gun on two inspectors (Female and male). A case of pointing a firearm has been opened for investigation at Centurion Police Station.
Trouble started when labour inspectors were doing their inspection in the complex. Because they were left with three companies to inspect and had run out of time, they decided to go to the three businesses to arrange for inspection at a later stage. Vetkoek Maleis was one of those companies they needed details of.
Without obvious provocation, the owner became angry when inspectors requested email and contact details so that they can make an appointment to inspect his company. He shouted and took off his shirt showing inspectors his scars which he claimed were because of “you people”. He slammed the doors, went to the back of the shop and came back with a gun which he proceeded to point at the inspectors.
As a result of this incident, these inspectors have been left traumatised to the extent our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has been roped in to provide them with necessary support including counselling.
“This is unacceptable. This is a sad‚ barbaric‚ disgusting and very unfortunate incident that deserved to be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Section 65 and 66 of Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA) empowers inspectors to enter employer premises in order to monitor and enforce compliance with labour laws where the employers carries his business or keeps employment records at any reasonable time without warrant or notice.
“It is unfortunate that the employer decided to expose our inspectors to the grave danger by brandishing the gun and this shows that he lacks an understanding of the Labour laws and the rights of his workers.
“Law enforcement and compliance in a workplace are the responsibility of labour inspectors and we will continue to monitor and enforce the legislation without fear or favour. We have since subpoenaed the said employer to appear before Labour Inspectors on 23 November 2020 at 239 Concillium Building, Pretoria at 14:00. During this session, he will be questioned and will be expected to produce evidence, and avail his books for inspection and other information. Failure to appear will constitute an offence and necessary legal action will be taken,” said the Gauteng Chief Inspector, Michael Msiza.
Enquiries:
Michael Msiza
Cell: 082 900 81831
