Popular ice cream van Gemma Joe’s has been forced to find a new home after being caught up in an enforcement operation targeting food trucks and kiosks occupying public parking spaces along the Sliema Strand.The Sliema Local Council announced that action had begun against food trucks and kiosks it said were illegally occupying public parking spaces, with several units, including Gemma Joe’s, being towed away.However, the owners of Gemma Joe’s have since spoken out, explaining that while their business is fully licensed to operate, they were informed by the authorities that they could no longer trade from their usual location because of its proximity to another ice cream van.“Unfortunately, we’ve been informed by the authorities that we can no longer operate from our usual spot, as we’re considered too close to another ice cream van under the applicable regulations,” the owners explained in a heartfelt social media statement.They added that the relocation would also require them to move their electrical setup, creating further challenges as they search for somewhere new to operate.“We’re fully licensed to trade, but we’ve been instructed to relocate, which also means moving our electrical setup.”Despite the setback, owners JP and Steve reassured customers that their van was safe and that they were already working on finding a new location for the business.“We’re not quite sure when we’ll be reopening just yet, but we’ll keep you all updated,” they said.The owners also took a moment to thank Swieqi Deputy Mayor Jordan, who personally reached out to them during what they described as a particularly difficult evening.“Jordan, your kindness, compassion and genuine warmth brought a little light into a rather dark moment for us,” they wrote.“You reminded us how much a little humanity can mean, especially when someone is going through a difficult time.”Meanwhile, the Sliema Local Council defended the enforcement operation, insisting that public parking spaces should remain accessible to residents and the wider public rather than being unlawfully occupied by commercial operators.The council said it had previously promised to address the issue and that enforcement action was now underway.It also pledged to continue working alongside the relevant authorities to safeguard public spaces and ensure regulations are respected.While the council has framed the operation as a necessary step towards reclaiming public parking spaces, Gemma Joe’s owners maintain that their business is licensed and that their relocation stems from regulations governing the distance between ice cream vendors.For now, the future location of the popular ice cream van remains uncertain, although its owners remain determined to get back on their feet.“And to everyone who has reached out with love and support, we are incredibly grateful,” they wrote.“We’ll find our feet again. We always do.”What do you make of the situation?•