A massive business inspection operation was held in Estcourt yesterday (September 4), specifically targeting companies suspected of employing foreign nationals without valid work permits.

The surprise operation was conducted by Inkosi Langalibalele Local Municipality, police from Estcourt and other towns in the Uthukela District, and the Department of Home Affairs’ Immigration Unit.

This campaign forms part of the municipality’s broader initiative to combat unemployment and prioritise job opportunities for local residents.

During the raid, in excess of 10 undocumented workers were apprehended at two business premises. Several others fled across nearby fields after spotting the officials.

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At least one employer was taken in for questioning to explain why undocumented labour was being used instead of hiring local citizens, despite high unemployment levels in the municipality.

Mayor Mduduzi Myeza emphasised that operations of this nature will continue. “This will not end. Unannounced inspections will continue because it is unacceptable that factories are filled with undocumented foreign nationals while local residents remain unemployed,” he said.

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