Hundreds of people from across the district marched through Dundee’s central business district on Tuesday morning to protest against undocumented foreigners.

The demonstration was held under the banner of “Make Dundee Live Again” and drew participants from communities across the Endumeni area.

Marchers first gathered at Kallies Stadium under a strong police presence before proceeding along Victoria Street and making their way to the Department of Home Affairs offices on Wilson Street.

Endumeni Mayor Mcebo Mkhize was among those at the forefront of the march, which was conducted peacefully.

At the time of going to press, no incidents had been reported.

The march comes amid a growing national debate around illegal immigration and immigration enforcement.

In a televised address on Sunday evening, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged public concerns about illegal immigration, saying it places pressure on service delivery, economic opportunities and public resources. He announced that the government would intensify efforts to identify and deport undocumented foreign nationals, strengthen border security and increase inspections of businesses found to be employing undocumented workers.

At the same time, he urged South Africans to respect the rule of law and warned that immigration enforcement remains the state’s responsibility.

Throughout Dundee, foreign-owned shops remained closed during the protest, with many business owners opting to keep their shutters down as a precaution.

The march concluded without any reported disruptions, with organisers reiterating their call for stricter enforcement of existing immigration laws.

HAVE YOUR SAY: Like our Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram or email us at dundee.courier@caxton.co.za. Add us on WhatsApp 071 277 1394.