In a bold move to tackle the employment of undocumented foreign nationals, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli led a surprise raid on a factory in the KwaDukuza Local Municipality on Thursday.
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.
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.
The crackdown forms part of the provincial government’s intensified efforts to enforce labour regulations and protect employment opportunities for South African citizens.
The Premier said further investigations into other businesses suspected of similar violations will continue.
