Tshwane Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya ordered the shutdown of Ipi Ntombi, a notorious bar‑cum‑brothel in the Pretoria CBD, after finding unapproved extensions, missing fire‑safety certificates and alleged exploitation of workers. Pictures Credits: Dr Nasiphi Moya (x)
By Duncan Mnisi
Gauteng – Pretoria’s city centre was abuzz on Tuesday as Tshwane Executive Mayor Dr Nasiphi Moya led a decisive raid that shut down Ipi Ntombi, a bar and brothel run by Chinese nationals and long considered a thorn in the side of local authorities.
The operation, carried out by metro police and municipal inspectors, resulted in officials seizing the keys to the venue’s 41 rooms, uncovering cash hidden under beds, and confiscating price lists advertising “full house” services for R1 000.
Beyond illegal activities, inspectors found the establishment had unapproved building extensions and operated without a fire-safety certificate—a mandatory requirement for any public-serving business in South Africa. According to SANS 10400 Part T, a Fire Safety Certificate of Compliance is compulsory when applying for a liquor license, health permit, or business license. The absence of an approved fire plan and certificate meant the venue posed a serious fire hazard.
“We have shut down Ipi Ntombi. This establishment has long violated our laws. Today, we brought in reinforcements to ensure the full might of the law deals decisively with the owners,” said Mayor Moya.
The metro police emphasized that the closure is part of a broader effort to restore order in the inner city and protect residents from unsafe conditions. “We are tackling lawlessness in the inner city, and the shutdown of Ipi Ntombi demonstrates the full force of the law,” the city stated.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the owners and managers. The venue will remain closed until it complies with all municipal regulations, including obtaining the mandatory fire-safety certificate and rectifying illegal extensions.
Local residents have welcomed the move, seeing it as a sign that stricter enforcement against illegal and unsafe businesses in Pretoria’s CBD is finally taking hold. As part of the city’s ongoing “Clean Governance and Law Enforcement” campaign, further inspections and crackdowns are expected in the coming weeks.
