The situation escalated when the traders turned violent, pelting stones at a council vehicle which was part of an operation aimed at curbing illegal street vending within the city.

The clash, which brought business to a standstill, left the streets in disarray, reflecting the simmering tensions between informal traders and municipal authorities.

In an interview with Zodiak Online, Usher Phiri, one of the affected vendors, emphasized the urgent need for a solution amidst the country's economic hardships.

Phiri further stressed the importance of finding a consensus that accommodates vendors, given the challenging economic climate.

Limbe Police Publicist Aubrey Singanyama has since assured that law enforcement is actively working to restore order in the area.

Blantyre City Council officials are yet to issue a comment on the development.

As tensions persist, the need for dialogue and resolution between the traders and municipal officials has proven to become increasingly crucial.

The confrontation sheds light on the mounting challenges between city authorities and informal traders striving to earn a livelihood.

With no immediate resolution in sight, the situation underscores the pressing necessity for a collaborative approach to address the conflicting interests between vendors and city regulations, especially during these economically trying times.