WATCH: Greenfields residents demand action on undocumented migrants and foreign-owned spaza shops
Residents packed the Greenfields Community Hall on June 24, where concerns about undocumented migrants and the operation of foreign-owned spaza shops dominated discussions with local leaders and law enforcement officials.
A heated community meeting at Greenfields Community Hall on June 24 saw residents voice concerns about undocumented migrants and the continued operation of foreign-owned spaza shops in the area.
The meeting brought together community members and government representatives, including Ward 58 Clr Mfundiso Fodo, Ekurhuleni MMC for Community Safety Mzayifane Ngwenya, EMPD Constable Njabulani Sibiya and SAPS Warrant Officer Sello Masola.
@albertonrecord Residents packed the Greenfields Community Hall on June 24, where concerns about undocumented migrants and the operation of foreign-owned spaza shops dominated discussions with local leaders and law enforcement officials. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
Residents used the platform to express frustration over what they described as the growing presence of undocumented migrants in the community and called for authorities to take action.
Speaking to the Alberton Record, Ngwenya said the gathering was intended to educate residents while also addressing concerns being raised ahead of June 30.
@albertonrecord A heated community meeting at Greenfields Community Hall on June 24 saw residents voice concerns about undocumented migrants and the continued operation of foreign-owned spaza shops in the area. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
“This is a public education meeting. We are also here to outline challenges of the government in responding to the call by communities that on June 30, everyone who is illegal in South Africa must be deported to their countries,” said Ngwenya.
“Communities around here have concerns over illegal spaza shops of illegal immigrants who are here.”
@albertonrecord Tumelo Ndamane speaking at a commuity meeting in Greenfields Residents used the platform to express frustration over what they described as the growing presence of undocumented migrants in the community and called for authorities to take action. Speaking to the Alberton Record, Ngwenya said the gathering was intended to educate residents while also addressing concerns being raised ahead of June 30. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
During the meeting, several residents called for the closure of foreign-owned spaza shops and the deportation of undocumented migrants. “We want foreign-owned spaza shops out of our community before June 30,” said Greenfields resident Tumelo Ndamane during the discussions.
While acknowledging residents’ concerns, Fodo urged community members to allow authorities to deal with the matter through legal channels. “While I accept and acknowledge your concerns about undocumented migrants and the operation of spaza shops owned by foreign nationals, I will not promote a situation where members of the community take matters into their own hands,” said Fodo.
@albertonrecord During the meeting, several residents called for the closure of foreign-owned spaza shops and the deportation of undocumented migrants. “We want foreign-owned spaza shops out of our community before June 30,” said Greenfields resident Tumelo Ndamane during the discussions. Full story on albertonrecord.co.za
“My appeal would be that we allow immigration and law enforcement officials to deal with these issues in a lawful and constitutional manner.”
The meeting forms part of a broader national conversation around illegal migration, with some communities across South Africa calling for stronger enforcement against undocumented migrants.
Residents and officials engaged extensively on the issue, with authorities emphasising the importance of following lawful processes when addressing community concerns.
