Picture: Undocumented individuals arrested during a raid/Generic
By AGISANANG SCUFF
9 January 2026- On 8 January 2026, eleven undocumented foreign nationals and six employers were arrested during a labour compliance blitz inspection in Rustenburg. The operation commenced on 6 January 2026, and targeted wholesale and retail establishments.
The Department of Employment and Labour Provincial Chief Inspector Chris Sithole said the arrested employers were each fined R15 000 for contravening the Immigration Act. Sithole said this enforcement initiative was a collaborative effort between the Department of Employment and Labour’s Inspection and Enforcement Services Branch in the North West, the Department of Home Affairs and the South African Police Service.
“We can confirm that the foreign nationals are being processed by the relevant authorities in accordance with the law. We warn employers against hiring undocumented workers, emphasising that such practices undermine national legislation.
“Exploitation is the root cause of employing undocumented foreign nationals. Some employers opt for cheap labour, which ultimately becomes costly when incidents occur. We urge employers to desist from these acts,” he said.
Sithole further said on the third day of inspections, 38 employers were assessed with 31 found non-compliant. He added that multiple contravention and prohibition notices as well as compliance orders were issued.
“The inspections focused on compliance with key labour legislation, including Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)
Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA) and Employment Services Act (ESA) National Minimum Wage Act (NMW).
“These blitz inspections form part of a broader service delivery campaign led by the Department of Employment and Labour in partnership with other government departments, targeting workplaces within the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality,” said Sithole.
He said upcoming activities for the week include UIF Mobile Office Launch, blitz inspection and service delivery campaign in Rustenburg on 9 January 2026.
The Guardian 