VANDERBIJLPARK.- Hundreds of Vaal residents gathered at the civic centre to protest against illegal migrants.

Several smaller groups from different townships across the region joined forces, bringing Vanderbijlpark to a complete standstill.

The demonstrators spent the morning singing, chanting, and carrying placards and knobkieries.

A heavy police presence, alongside several private security companies, worked together to maintain law and order and protect those who were not taking part in the widespread demonstrations.

During the protest, some groups handed over a memorandum to SAPS management.

Community leaders and residents expressed deep frustration over rising crime and drug sales.

One unnamed community leader stated that they were reclaiming their streets after their concerns had been ignored for too long.

Speaking to Ster during the demonstrations, he said: “We’ve been raising these issues without getting any attention. Today, we are here to say enough is enough. We stand in solidarity with the entire country in calling for the removal of illegal immigrants in our region. Mabahambe [Let them go],” he said.

Protesters also voiced their fears about the impact of crime on the younger generation.

Nthabiseng Mokoka (32) explained that they watch their youth being consumed by drugs daily.

“All we want is to make sure that our grievances are given attention. Police and other law enforcers should play their role and make sure that our streets are clean.”

Zimkhulu Sangweni (45) said: “The issue of foreign nationals is a burning issue. If we sit and laze around without showing our dissatisfaction, we are in for a long one. It’s been years since foreigners have been running our towns; today we are gathered to reclaim them.”

Vanderbijlpark Police Station Commander Brigadier Phiwe Ndwandwe addressed the gathered crowd after receiving their memorandum.

“We will deliberate on your issues and promise to respond to your grievances before the 14-day mark for response,” he said.