A recent visit to Zandspruit businesses by Ward 114 Constituency Chairperson, Councillor Sello Mabelebele, has raised concerns about illegal employment practices.

The oversight visit on July 7 followed a community tip-off about undocumented foreign nationals allegedly working at several local businesses. Among those visited were OBC, a hardware store, Plus Butcher, and Watloo Meat & Chicken.

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While OBC management was cooperative and open to ongoing engagement, the hardware store drew serious concern. A senior staff member admitted that out of 10 employees, six are foreign nationals. Only three were confirmed to be South African citizens, with others possibly being undocumented or lacking valid work permits.

The store’s management defended their hiring choices by saying South African workers are “undisciplined” and “frequently absent.” Cllr Mabelebele strongly rejected the remarks.

“I found these comments deeply offensive,” he said. “You cannot generalise or discriminate against South Africans. Every citizen deserves a fair chance to work.”

The Immigration Act 13 of 2002 prohibits hiring undocumented foreigners or those without valid work permits. Employers must verify the legal status of all staff; otherwise, they risk being presumed guilty of knowingly hiring undocumented workers.

No arrests were made, as the visit aimed to promote education over enforcement. The hardware store requested a week to consult its partners, with a follow-up meeting set for July 14.

“South Africa can only grow when we respect all laws,” said Mabelebele. “Compliance isn’t optional, it’s a duty.”

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