SCORES of foreign nationals remain at the decommissioned Old Drive-In Site this morning (June 30), awaiting news of when they will be transported to the temporary repatriation centre in Musina, Limpopo.

The eThekwini Municipality began dismantling the migrant campsite on Monday as the operation entered its final phase. The City essential service tents will remain in place until the repatriation process is completed, however, when the Berea Mail arrived at the site today an estimated 500 people were sat out in the open with security and law enforcement guarding the camp.

Municipal workers were on site cleaning the waste left behind in the haste to board buses. When asked if they have been informed about their departure one person responded:

“We haven’t been told anything. We don’t know, we might not be leaving.”

Also Read: Race against time to relocate Malawi nationals from Durban camp

The eThekwini Municipality said they remain committed to supporting national government in ensuring that the repatriation process is carried out in a safe, dignified, and orderly manner.

eThekwini Municipality Mayor Cyril Xaba said more than 15 000 individuals were processed through the Durban Drive-In site before operations were relocated to Musina.

He said in partnership with the Government of Malawi, the United Nations, and the International Organisation for Migration, all logistical arrangements were put in place to facilitate the onward repatriation of Malawian nationals.

He thanked all spheres of government, community members, non-profit and faith-based organisations, volunteers, law enforcement agencies, Municipal officials, and partner organisations for their commitment and co-operation throughout the operation.

He also conveyed his special appreciation to the residents and businesses of Sherwood and Ward 26, as well as community crime prevention structures, for their patience, understanding, and support during this period.

“We fully appreciate the inconvenience that residents and businesses had to endure. As I have indicated before, this was an unforeseen situation that required an urgent humanitarian response. Through the tireless efforts of government officials, volunteers, and our partners from various non-profit and faith-based organisations, we ensured that the repatriation process was conducted in a humane, safe, and lawful manner,” said Xaba.

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