A viral TikTok video has led to the raid and subsequent arrests at the Babel restaurant in Menlyn, Pretoria.
Story Summary:
- A TikTok video exposing unfair labour practices at Babel restaurant led to a raid by police and Home Affairs officials.
- Three arrests were made, including the restaurant owner and two undocumented workers.
- The Labour Department warned that more raids targeting non-compliant restaurants will follow.
The TikToker that sparked the Babel restaurant raid
The raid was prompted by allegations of unfair labour practices shared by a former employee, Mihlali, who detailed her work experience at the swanky restaurant.
In the video, she described being hired without a formal contract, forced to pay for her own uniform, and subjected to harsh working conditions.
She revealed that employees at Babel had no basic salary and only earned tips.
In addition, they were required to pay a daily non-refundable R200 breakage fee, purchase their own equipment, and were fined to cover the cost of broken cutlery.
Following this, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) visited the restaurant to assess the situation, and authorities, including the Department of Labour, Home Affairs, and the police, followed up with a sting operation on Sunday evening.
The raid led to the arrest of three individuals, including the restaurant owner and two undocumented staff members.
Labour department warns future raids on shoddy restaurants
Home Affairs Acting Provincial Manager for Gauteng, Albert Matsaung, confirmed that the arrested staff members did not have valid work permits, while the restaurant owner was arrested for employing undocumented workers.
Matsaung warned that the employer would be fined, while the arrested workers would likely be deported.
He reiterated that such actions would be taken against other businesses that fail to comply with South African labour laws.
Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth echoed this sentiment, stating on social media that this was just the beginning of the department’s efforts to crack down on unfair labour practices in the hospitality industry.
Meth promised further raids on establishments suspected of exploiting workers, with a focus on rooting out undocumented labour and ensuring all employees are treated fairly according to the law.
A detailed statement from the Department of Labour is expected today.
