In response to complaints lodged, the Departments of Home Affairs and Labour, in conjunction with the SA police, conducted raids on businesses employing illegal foreign nationals, in Cape Town on Wednesday, 09 May 2018.

The raids were conducted in China City in Milnerton and Canal Walk in Century City. In total, 25 illegal foreign nationals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. The number of those arrested is expected to increase as investigations are continuing. A manager at one of the restaurants that were visited will be charged for contravention of the Immigration Act, which prohibits employment of illegal foreign nationals in South Africa.

Random inspections at places of employment are conducted to ensure employers of foreign nationals comply with immigration laws. Employing foreigners who are not in possession of enabling documents is an offence. The department, working in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, will continue to enforce immigration legislation with no respite.

Those who persist in flouting immigration and labour laws of the country will face the full might of the law. This is in support of the national drive towards safer communities wherein citizens and documented foreign nationals are and feel safe.

For media enquiries contact Thabo Mokgola on 060 962 4982 or Mayihlome Tshwete on 072 869 2477

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS