The Department of Home Affairs has warned that a public notice circulating online claiming that anyone who catches or reports foreign nationals will receive R250 is fraudulent.  

This comes a day before a protest is expected to be led by March and March, a citizen-led movement calling for stronger action on undocumented immigration. 

In a post on its Facebook page, the department said the notice did not originate from either the Department of Home Affairs or the Minister of Home Affairs. 

Respect the rule of law 

It said the department does not offer monetary rewards to members of the public for reporting undocumented foreign nationals. 

“We encourage the public to verify information through official channels before sharing it. Let us all play our part in promoting accurate information, responsible engagement and respect for the rule of law.” 

The department advised the public to follow its official communication platforms for verified updates and official announcements. 

No place for intolerance 

Speaking at a National Council of Provinces meeting in the Western Cape, President Cyril Ramaphosa said responsibility for enforcing the law lies with the state and that individuals may not stop others to demand documentation or proof of nationality. 

The meeting was held to address key national issues. 

He added that there is no place for racism, sexism, xenophobia, Afrophobia or any other form of intolerance. 

In an interview with Network News, March and March founder Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma said organisers have security measures in place to ensure the demonstrations remain peaceful, while Acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia reassured South Africans that law enforcement agencies are prepared to maintain peace, stability and public order. 

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