Multi-agency Durban CBD crackdown tackles undocumented immigration and illegal businesses.
Image: DOCTOR NGCOBO
A joint operation led by the eThekwini Municipality and multiple government agencies resulted in the arrest of 23 undocumented foreign nationals and the closure of five non-compliant retail outlets in the Durban CBD.
The high-impact multidisciplinary operation, involving the Durban Metro Police Service, Municipal Business Support, the Department of Home Affairs and other government institutions, targeted businesses and individuals along Dr Pixley KaSeme and Anton Lembede streets as part of efforts to enforce immigration laws and tackle non-compliance.
"The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with immigration legislation, enhance public safety, and restore order within key business and trading areas of the city," the municipality said in a statement.
EThekwini targets illegal immigration and non-compliant traders in major CBD raid.
Image: DOCTOR NGCOBO
A total of 32 people were detained for immigration status verification by Department of Home Affairs officials.
Those arrested include nationals from Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Tanzania and China.
Accompanied by Ward 32 councillor Protas Mngonyama, Durban Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said authorities were responding to growing concerns in the inner city.
"We've heard and are responding to the ongoing concerns of the mushrooming of illegal retail outlets, illegal and undocumented immigrants, dirt and grime, prostitution, and the sale of illegal narcotics in and around the city."
Multi-agency Durban CBD crackdown tackles undocumented immigration and illegal businesses
Image: DOCTOR NGCOBO
The municipality confirmed that five shops were shut down for failing to comply with applicable legislation and regulatory requirements.
"The city remains committed to sustained multi-disciplinary operations aimed at ensuring compliance with the law, maintaining public order, and creating a safer environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in the Durban CBD."
The city also commended the collaborative efforts of agencies involved in the operation, including the SAPS, the departments of Home Affairs, Labour and Health, Metro Police, and other law enforcement partners.
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