eDumbe march calls for action on undocumented immigrants

Residents under the banner of March and March took to the streets of eDumbe on Friday, calling for stronger action against illegal or undocumented immigrants in the area.

Peaceful demonstration through eDumbe

The peaceful march made its way to the eDumbe Local Municipality offices, where members handed over a memorandum to Director of Corporate Services, VB Mbatha, who received and signed it on behalf of the Mayor and Municipal Manager, who were unavailable at the time. The memorandum was also received in the presence of the eDumbe SAPS station commander.

Concerns raised by residents

The group raised concerns about the alleged impact of undocumented immigrants on local employment opportunities, crime and service delivery. Some residents further alleged that certain foreign nationals are involved in criminal activities, including the sale of illegal drugs. They called on the relevant authorities to enforce immigration laws and address their concerns.

The memorandum outlines several demands and calls for government departments and law enforcement agencies to take action where necessary.

Municipality outlines ongoing interventions

Responding to the memorandum, Mbatha said the municipality has already begun working with the Department of Home Affairs and SAPS to address some of the concerns raised. He said joint operations have been conducted at businesses operated by foreign nationals.

According to Mbatha, some business owners were given seven days to comply with legal requirements, while others were arrested during the operations.

Peaceful conclusion

Municipal officials acknowledged receipt of the memorandum, while police monitored the march to ensure it proceeded peacefully. No incidents of violence or arrests related to the march were reported during the demonstration.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.