KwaDukuza, KwaZulu-Natal • 29 May 2025 - In a decisive move to confront the illegal employment of undocumented foreign nationals, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli led a surprise raid on a factory in the KwaDukuza Local Municipality as part of Operation Engangeni Ngesango Iyafohla.

The operation uncovered several undocumented workers employed at the facility. These individuals are now set to face deportation to their countries of origin, while the factory owner will face severe legal consequences for violating South African labour laws, which explicitly prohibit the hiring of undocumented migrants.

Premier Ntuli strongly condemned the practice, highlighting its detrimental impact on local job opportunities and the broader economic landscape.

“Employers who exploit undocumented workers not only break the law but also deprive South African job seekers of the opportunities they rightfully deserve by prioritising cheap labour,” said Premier Ntuli.

He further stressed that protecting local employment is a critical priority for the provincial government, especially in the face of South Africa’s soaring unemployment rate.

The raid formed part of KwaZulu-Natal’s broader efforts to enforce labour regulations, uphold the integrity of the job market, and ensure that employment opportunities are preserved for legal residents. Premier Ntuli confirmed that further investigations and inspections targeting other businesses suspected of similar violations will continue across the province.

“This is just the beginning,” said the Premier. “We are sending a clear message to employers who think they can bypass the law: illegal practices will not be tolerated in KwaZulu-Natal.”