50 UNDOCUMENTED WORKERS ARRESTED IN CLAYVILLE

A large-scale joint operation led by Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Jomo Sibiya and Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza resulted in the arrest of about 50 undocumented foreign nationals at a construction site in Clayville on Friday, 27 February 2026.

The multi-disciplinary raid involved the Department of Employment and Labour, , Department of Home Affairs, SAPS, EMPD and community safety patrollers commonly known as AmaPanyaza. Authorities say the operation forms part of an ongoing crackdown on non-compliant employers across the city.

Officials confirmed the workers were found actively employed and receiving salaries at a construction site operating under the name Tri Star.

Several workers tried to run away the site as police vehicles surrounded the area. More than five (5) police vans were later filled with the detained individuals, who are expected to be processed by immigration authorities.

Deputy Minister Sibiya said the operation was not only about immigration status but also labour violations.

“Anyone who thinks he can undermine the law and the authority of the state — we have to hit hard on them. We must not allow people to think we are a state that cannot bite. We are a state that can bite and show that we have authority.”

KAE News understands similar inspections may continue across the country as government intensifies enforcement operations.