Mansa Municipal Council has intensified its crackdown on street vending after confiscating 290 pieces of fresh fish, valued between K3,000 and K3,500, from traders operating in undesignated areas around Down UB Market.
Mansa Municipal Council Public Relations Officer Joel Kashi says the operation was aimed at restoring order, protecting public health, and ensuring that traders comply with regulations governing commercial activities.
Mr Kashi says the council had previously sensitised traders on the dangers of street vending and encouraged them to use designated trading facilities, but some had continued operating in undesignated areas.
He says the authority was particularly concerned about fresh fish being sold in uncontrolled environments where it could be exposed to dust, flies, contaminated surfaces, and other sources of contamination, potentially putting consumers at risk.
He has emphasized that improper disposal of fish waste, packaging, and wastewater could also create unhygienic conditions, attract pests, and contribute to environmental health concerns, while street vending could obstruct pedestrians and motorists.
He has also stressed that the confiscated fish would be handled in accordance with the applicable legal process and warned that the council would continue conducting enforcement operations against traders found contravening the law.
Mr. Kashi has urged traders to cooperate with the council and use designated trading facilities, saying the local authority remains committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and orderly trading environment in Mansa.
By Kalombe Kapambwe
