CHRIS HANI DISTRICT – South African Police Service members in the Chris Hani District arrested 35 undocumented foreign nationals and fined a further 17 during a large-scale enforcement operation on 28 June, two days before a nationwide protest against illegal immigration, with four opportunistic suspects also nabbed after breaking into an Ethiopian-owned shop in Nxuba when its owner fled upon seeing police approach.

According to police spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela, the operation was conducted under the June 30 Operational Deployment, ahead of the anticipated nationwide “March and March” protest against illegal immigration.

She said the operational strategy focused on conducting high-visibility patrols across all suburbs and business nodes, identifying undocumented foreign nationals in workplaces and public spaces, preventing assaults, looting, and damage to foreign-owned properties, and executing stop-and-search operations on major roads and streets.

“A total of 35 foreign nationals were arrested for being in the country without valid documentation. A further 17 foreign nationals received fines totalling R21,000 for possessing expired permits,” said Mgolodela.

“The majority of those apprehended originate from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, and Bangladesh,” said Mgolodela.

Mgolodela added that during business inspections in Michaulsdal, Nxuba, an Ethiopian shop owner fled and locked his premises upon seeing the police approach.

She said four suspects, aged between 33 and 55, seized the opportunity and broke into the shop, stealing various items.

“The suspects were immediately arrested while still in possession of the stolen goods and are expected to appear in the Nxuba Magistrate’s Court soon,” said Mgolodela.

She added that motorists were also issued traffic fines exceeding R10,000 for various violations.

District Commissioner Major General Rudolph Adolph commended his officers for their dedication and vigour in executing their duties under the June 30 Operational Deployment.

He expressed optimism for continued successes as the operation unfolds.

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