Operation Buyisa targets illegal activities in Wentworth and Merebank
During the operation, authorities discovered 18 undocumented foreign nationals working at a shoe factory in Wentworth. Seven additional individuals were taken into custody by the Department of Home Affairs for verification and further processing.
The enforcement programme, Operation Buyisa, was successfully rolled out by the eThekwini Municipality and the South African Police Service (SAPS) together with various stakeholders in Wentworth and Merebank.
The operation targeted illegal activities, environmental violations, and threats to public safety, reinforcing the city’s commitment to law enforcement and community well-being.
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During the operation, authorities discovered 18 undocumented foreign nationals working at a shoe factory in Wentworth. Seven additional individuals were taken into custody by the Department of Home Affairs for verification and further processing.
The factory owner was charged under Section 49, Subsection 3 of the Immigration Act, and the premises were subsequently closed. Councillor, Tariq Mohamed expressed gratitude to participating agencies and emphasised the importance of sustained operations of this nature.
“This initiative enforces the city’s by- laws, combats corruption, dismantles drug syndicates, promotes hygiene, and ensures a safe and peaceful environment,” said Cllr Mohamed.
The operation was a multi-agency collaboration involving the Wentworth SAPS, KwaZulu-Natal Liquor Board, and the KwaZulu-Natal Community Safety and Liaison Department.
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From the city, the Metro Police, Fire Services, Waste Management, and the Parks and Recreation Directorates together with the Business Licensing Division assisted in the programme.
Cllr Mohamed acknowledged the Supply Side and Area Based Operations Directorate who played a central role in co-ordinating local intelligence, mobilising community structures, and ensuring operational efficiency.
