A textile factory in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal is currently under scrutiny following an operation conducted by the Newcastle South African Police Service (SAPS), which uncovered that the owner had engaged the services of 15 illegal foreign nationals.
Providing further insight, Lizzy Arumugam, spokesperson for Newcastle SAPS, confirmed that this incident transpired on Tuesday, 5 September 2023.
The law enforcement authorities executed a raid after receiving credible information regarding the unlawful employment of foreign nationals at the textile factory.
“The raid formed part of the high density operations in Newcastle, and upon carrying out the raid, the police found 15 illegal foreign nationals,” said Arumugam. She also pointed out that after their arrest, they were taken to the Newcastle SAPS holding cells.
Moreover, all 15 illegal foreign nationals involved in the case originate from Lesotho and have reportedly journeyed to Newcastle in pursuit of better opportunities.
Arumugam said that these 15 individuals are scheduled to make appearances before the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court within the course of this week.
“Subsequently, they will be transferred to immigration officers, after which they will be deported to their home country,” Arumugam added.
While the owner of the textile factory has not been taken into custody at this time, further investigations will be conducted to scrutinise his employment practices.
With fractured employment opportunities in the area, it is extremely important for Newcastillians to report illegal workers to the SAPS. Additionally, if you suspect an employer is hiring illegal immigrants it is your responsibility to report them to the authorities.
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