KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, has called for the urgent resolution of the occupation outside the Che Guevara Road Home Affairs Refugee Reception Centre in Durban by foreign nationals who say they are seeking safety after allegedly being threatened by community members.

Premier Ntuli urged Home Affairs officials to move with speed and efficiency in finalising the verification and repatriation process.

Scores of foreign nationals from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Uganda, Mozambique and Tanzania have gathered outside the refugee reception centre, citing concerns for their safety.

The Premier called on diplomatic representatives of the affected nationals to work with law enforcement agencies, Home Affairs and other organs of state to ensure that the process is handled in an orderly and coordinated manner.

Premier Ntuli said those who are willing and eligible to be reintegrated should be assisted accordingly, while those who have undergone the necessary verification process through Home Affairs should be processed for repatriation where applicable.

He said successful reintegration would contribute towards strengthening social cohesion and improving relations between local communities and foreign nationals.

“All immigrants who have been verified by Home Affairs will be transported to a Lindela centre, where they will then be repatriated to their countries,” said Premier Ntuli.

The Premier also raised concern about the conditions at Che Guevara Road, saying the occupation is in contravention of eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality bylaws and poses a health risk.

“The occupation on Che Guevara Road is in contravention of eThekwini Metro bylaws and poses a health risk. These conditions are not suitable for human habitation,” said Premier Ntuli.

Premier Ntuli emphasised that the matter requires a coordinated response that upholds the law while ensuring that the dignity and safety of all affected people are respected.

Following a comprehensive progress report from Home Affairs officials, the Premier expressed confidence that the outstanding processes would be expedited.

He called on all relevant authorities and diplomatic representatives to continue working together to bring the matter to a lawful, humane and sustainable conclusion.

The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government remains committed to promoting social cohesion, upholding the rule of law and ensuring that matters involving immigration and community safety are addressed through the appropriate legal and administrative processes.

KwaZulu-Natal, Inspiring New Hope.

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