On 8 January 2026, eleven undocumented foreign nationals and six employers were arrested during a labour compliance blitz inspection in Rustenburg, North West Province. The operation commenced on 6 January 2026 and targeted wholesale and retail establishments. The arrested employers were each fined R15,000 for contravening the Immigration Act.
This enforcement initiative was a collaborative effort between the Department of Employment and Labour's Inspection and Enforcement Services Branch in the North West Province, the Department of Home Affairs, and the South African Police Service.
Provincial Chief Inspector Chris Sithole confirmed that the foreign nationals are being processed by the relevant authorities in accordance with the law. He further warned 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," said Sithole.
On the third day of inspections, 38 employers were assessed, with 31 found non-compliant. Multiple contravention and prohibition notices, as well as compliance orders, were issued.
The inspections focused on compliance with key labour legislation, including:
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.
Upcoming activities for the week include:
Blitz Inspection
Date: 09 January 2026
Venue: Rustenburg
Time: 07H00
Service delivery campaign & UIF Mobile Office Launch
Venue: Letlhabile Community Hall
Time: 09H00 - 15H00
Media houses that wish to attend and cover these activities may RSVP with Botsang Huma at Botsang.huma@labour.gov.za / 082 497 7438
For media inquiries, please contact:
Pertunia Lessing
Director: Media Liaison
066 301 4645/ petunia.lessing@labour.gov.za
Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour
© 2019 - The South African Department of Employment & Labour
