In a bold move to tackle the employment of undocumented foreign nationals, a major multi-department surprise raid was conducted on a textile factory in Shakaville on Thursday, 29 May, after receiving a tip-off that the factory was allegedly employing more than 300 undocumented immigrants.
The operation was led by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli, who also heads the Department of Community Safety. He was joined by Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, along with officials from the Department of Labour and the Department of Home Affairs.
The operation uncovered several undocumented workers, who will now face deportation to their countries of origin. The factory owner is set to face severe legal consequences for violating South African labour laws, which strictly prohibit the hiring of undocumented migrants.
Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi added, “Many business owners avoid labour laws by hiring undocumented foreign nationals, making it easier to short-change them on employee benefits. This cost-cutting motive is a major driver behind the trend.”
The factory is owned by a South African national of Indian descent and has been in operation for 25 years. During the interrogation, which was partially captured on video, the factory owner admitted that her business supplies major South African retailers. She claimed that the workers arrived with what she believed were valid work permits and denied knowingly violating the law.
Premier Ntuli condemned the practice, stating that the employment of illegal foreigners exacerbates South Africa’s soaring unemployment rate. “Employers who exploit undocumented workers not only break the law but also deprive local job seekers of opportunities by prioritising cheap labour,” said the Premier.
Ntuli’s response was direct: “They enter our country illegally. I am very sorry for you. The law is the law. The law remains the law. It is very unfortunate.” He said that the actions of the factory owner had tarnished the reputation of her company and served as a reminder that no business is above the law.
Speaking after the raid, Ntuli said: “I want to believe that what they’ve done today will send a clear message: those who want to come into our country illegally will think twice. They’ll know that if they come to KwaZulu-Natal, the police will catch them.”
This raid forms part of the provincial government’s intensified efforts to enforce labour regulations and protect employment opportunities for South African citizens. Ntuli said further investigations into other businesses suspected of similar violations will continue.
