The Department of Employment and Labour in Gauteng has opened a case against a man who pointed a firearm on two labour inspectors who were doing an inspection at the business complex in Centurion, Pretoria.
The incident took place at the Hennopspark Centurion, franchise of Vetkoek Maleis.
“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,” the Department of Employment and Labour said in a statement.
“Without obvious provocation, the owner became angry when the inspectors requested an 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,” the department said.
As a result of this incident, the inspectors were left traumatised to an extent that the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has been roped in to provide them with the 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.
“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,” the department said.
According to the department, the said employer has been subpoenaed to appear before the Labour Inspectors on 23 November 2020 at 239 Concilium 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 Gauteng Chief Inspector Michael Msiza.
