KZN ActionSA welcomes arrest of 268 illegal immigrants in Newcastle

JOHANNESBURG - ActionSA has welcomed the arrest of 268 illegal immigrants in Newcastle, in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).

Authorities raided two textile warehouses on Gutenberg Street on Friday night, continuing their search into the early hours of Saturday morning.  

Police also arrested two warehouse owners and charged them with contravening the Immigration Act.  

ActionSA led a protest in the same area earlier this year, demanding for inspection of factories in the area.

The party’s provincial spokesperson, Sanelisiwe Zuma: 

“This marks a significant step toward addressing illegal immigration and the unlawful employment of undocumented foreigners, an issue we brought to light earlier this year. On the 1st of March 2024, ActionSA led a march to the Department of Labour in Newcastle, demanding immediate action and inspections of factories in the Mabhodini area.

“Our investigations had revealed that many businesses in the area employed illegal
foreigners over local South Africans. We have consistently emphasised that jobs and economic opportunities in Newcastle must benefit local residents, especially amid the region’s high youth unemployment.”

The party said the arrest was an essential step in protecting local jobs.

“It’s imperative that South African citizens are prioritised for employment opportunities than being sidelined by illegal practises. We are encouraged by the action of the authorities. We also urge provincial government to focus on all illegally owned factories in the Mandeni areas. It’s time for decisive action to address these systematic issues from across the province.”

The 268 illegal immigrants - whose ages range between 18 and 51 years old would be processed by the Home Affairs Department's immigration officers before appearing before the Newcastle Magistrates Court on Monday.