Police said on Tuesday that the presence of roadside vendors on the streets of New Providence is growing.
But it comes as no surprise to some people given that it’s crab season and many vendors are trying to take advantage of that.
Some people view these roadside vendors as eyesores that should not be permitted to line the streets with their products, but police said as long as they have permits, it’s no problem.
The situation has triggered a crackdown, according to Inspector Harry Williams.
To legally sell their products, roadside vendors are required to have a police permit. But first they are required to present copies of their passports, a police record and proof of approval for the space they have chosen to set up shop.
A food vendor is also required to have a health certificate and certificate from the food handlers course.
“Once these items are brought in and it does not infringe on another vendor’s space then the permit is granted which can take anywhere from a day to one week,” Inspector Williams explained.
Permits are free of charge and vendors are required to have the permits on them once they are selling their products.
But police believe that many vendors, who are selling anything from crabs, fruits, clothing, electronics and toiletries, are operating illegally.
Many of them this week are also selling independence paraphernalia from the side of the street, the police have pointed out.
“Anybody [who] sells anything in The Bahamas needs to get a permit or a license to sell it. Anyone who doesn’t have either of the items is operating illegally,” Inspector Williams warned.
He indicated that police have increased checks as they seek to crack down on the practice.
“We are looking at those persons who are not in possession of permits and if caught they can face a charge of anywhere from $20 to $250 and all of their items will be confiscated,” Inspector Williams said.
He said that police officers have already warned several vendors without permits to get one or face prosecution.
Some, he indicated, have refused to heed this warning.
Others see wisdom in getting permits, although they complain about the process.
Shantell Demeritte, who operates a hotdog stand on East Street South, said she has a permit, but she believes that there is too much red tape in securing permits.
It’s why, Ms. Demeritte said, many people are reluctant to apply.
“The government needs to put some provisions in place so that [permits would be easier to obtain],” she said.
Another vendor said it’s not necessary for her to obtain a permit because her goods are seasonal.
“We are from Andros and we only come down once a year to sell crabs, so I don’t really have the time to go through the whole process of trying to get a permit to sell because by the time I get one it will be time for me to return home,” Elizabeth Rolle said.
Another crab vendor, Rudolph Grant, shared similar sentiments.
Mr. Grant said he preferred not to be bothered with applying for a permit to sell crabs because the process is “too hectic”.
Police also warned vendors against selling alcohol without permits, particularly as the independence holiday weekend approaches.
“Every person who is selling alcohol needs to apply to the business license office to sell any type of alcohol,” Inspector Williams reminded.
“Persons who want to set up alcohol stands for the Independence Day celebrations will need licenses or they will be penalized. We have a no tolerance for persons who are going to set up this year selling alcohol.”
By: Bianca Symonette, The Bahama Journal
