Community leaders and law enforcement have appealed for calm after a group of foreign nationals, including families with children, reportedly gathered at Rydalvale grounds over the weekend following fears of being forcibly removed from the Bhambhayi area.
President of the People’s Freedom Party and councillor Mohamed Tariq said he was alerted to the situation early on Saturday morning after reports that people had arrived at the local grounds carrying luggage and personal belongings. According to Tariq, discussions with some of those gathered revealed that they were Zimbabwean nationals living in Bhambhayi and employed in surrounding areas, who had been told to leave by community members.
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, Tariq said: “They were apparently given a deadline that by Saturday, 20 June, they had to leave Bhambhayi or face being removed forcefully. Fearing for their safety, many reportedly made their way to the Rydalvale grounds with children and essential belongings while awaiting assistance. I immediately engaged law enforcement authorities, including Metro Police and SAPS Phoenix, who were already aware of developments and monitored the situation throughout the day. By the afternoon, transport had been arranged and the large group was moved from the grounds.”
The incident comes at a time of heightened anxiety across Durban and other parts of KwaZulu-Natal following a series of public marches and demonstrations in various areas where concerns around undocumented migration, service delivery pressures and local safety were raised by protestors. These gatherings, which circulated widely on social media, have contributed to growing public debate and heightened emotions in some communities, although authorities have repeatedly urged that such matters must be addressed through lawful processes and not through intimidation or forced removals.
Addressing concerns circulating in communities, Tariq urged residents to rely on recognised structures and lawful processes rather than acting on rumours or fear. “There’s currently panic within the community about 30 June, where people are assuming that there’s going to be unrest. Remember, the 30 June is not enforced by law and it is not a decision made by the government. Wherever you are, especially in the eThekwini district, remain calm and work with law enforcement instead of against the law. Speak to your local Community Policing Forum, spiritual crime prevention structures and authorised bodies that continue working to protect the interests of everyone living in South Africa,” said Tariq.
He further urged residents to ensure that concerns around immigration, safety and community disputes are handled through legal channels. “We encourage residents to report threats, suspicious activity or concerns directly to SAPS and the relevant authorities. Communities should not participate in unlawful removals or actions that place lives at risk. Verify information before sharing it on social media and allow law enforcement and immigration authorities to carry out their responsibilities,” he said.
National authorities have also moved to reassure the public, stating that no official 30 June deadline has been issued and warning against the circulation of false notices and unverified information that may create fear or instability. Security agencies have indicated they remain on alert to ensure public safety and have cautioned that incitement to violence remains a criminal offence. Community leaders are encouraging residents to report concerns through official channels and avoid actions that may place lives at risk.
Call 10111 or report suspicious activity anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111
