Authorities in northern KwaZulu-Natal have arrested seven undocumented foreign shop owners suspected of selling expired food in Mtshezi.

The arrests were part of an operation conducted on Wednesday to inspect the quality of food sold in the area.

During the raid, officials also discovered firearms and over 500 rounds of live ammunition.

Inkosi Langalibalele Municipality Mayor Mduduzi Myeza confirmed that the shops linked to the suspects have been shut down pending further investigations.

“Some shop owners managed to escape, but we could not find them.

The police will investigate the firearms to determine their legality and whether they have been used in criminal activities,” said Myeza.

The arrests come amid heightened concerns over food safety in South Africa, with President Cyril Ramaphosa expected to address the nation on the ongoing food poisoning crisis.