KwaZulu-Natal Premier and Community Safety and Liaison Executive Authority, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, says the province’s coordinated multisectoral approach to crime prevention is producing the intended results.

Earlier today, Friday 5 December 2025, a joint intelligence-driven operation led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) together with the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Unit resulted in the arrest of 17 undocumented foreign nationals at two separate factories in Pietermaritzburg.

Premier Ntuli welcomed the outcomes of the operation, noting that it strengthens the province’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring compliance within the business sector.

“Today, we managed to arrest Pakistani nationals who employ undocumented foreign nationals. We are intensifying this campaign through a multisectoral approach,” said Premier Ntuli.

He further applauded and appreciated all partners working with the Provincial Government, particularly the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, for their continued collaboration in enforcing compliance and promoting safer communities.

Operation Engangeni Ngesango Iyafohla forms part of the province’s efforts to detect, deter, and prevent criminal activities through strengthened partnerships between government, law enforcement, and community structures.