Metro Police tightens the net on non-compliant businesses in Durban CBD
Ward 32 councillor, Protas Mngonyama, who spearheaded the rejuvenation of the once-notorious Albert Park, was part of the operation.
A joint operation took place in the Durban CBD, targeting illegal immigration and non-compliant businesses as authorities intensified efforts to restore order and improve safety in the city centre.
The initiative was led by the Metro Police in collaboration with the city’s Business Support Division, the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Police Service, and other government institutions.
The multi-disciplinary stakeholder operation resulted in the arrest of 23 undocumented foreigners and the closure of five noncompliant retail outlets along Dr Pixley KaSeme Street and Anton Lembede Street.
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These form part of ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance with immigration legislation, enhance public safety, and restore order in key business and trading areas of the city.
Ward 32 councillor, Protas Mngonyama, who spearheaded the rejuvenation of the once-notorious Albert Park, was part of the operation.
Metro Police spokesperson, Colonel Boysie Zungu, said, “This operation is a response to the concerns of the mushrooming of illegal retail outlets, illegal foreigners, dirt and grime, prostitution, and the sale of illegal narcotics in the city centre.”
A total of 32 individuals were detained for immigration status verification by officials from the Department of Home Affairs.
Following verification processes, 23 undocumented foreigners between the ages of 21 and 54 were confirmed to be unlawfully in the country and subsequently arrested in terms of the Immigration Act.
Col Zungu confirmed five shops were closed due to non-compliance with applicable legislation and regulatory requirements.
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The city commends the collaborative efforts of all agencies involved, including the South African Police Service, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Labour, Department of Health, Metro Police, and other law enforcement partners.
The city remains committed to sustained multi-disciplinary operations aimed at ensuring compliance with the law, maintaining public order, and creating a safer environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in the vibrant Durban CBD.
