A joint operation by Home Affairs officials and law enforcement agencies led to the arrest of over 20 undocumented migrants at a steel manufacturing company and a blanket factory in Roodepoort, west of Johannesburg. Among those detained were two Chinese nationals suspected of employing illegal foreign workers, as well as migrants from Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe.
Raids Uncover Dangerous Conditions
During the operation, authorities discovered live ammunition and weapons at the steel factory, prompting further police investigation. The Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Njabulo Nzuza, confirmed that the factory owner—a Chinese national—is still at large and will face charges for violating labor and immigration laws.
At a nearby blanket factory, officials found workers living in squalid conditions, sleeping under rubble and covered with cloth for warmth. Acting Johannesburg Executive Mayor Kenny Kunene described the scene as “appalling,” revealing that the buildings were illegally connected to a city substation, stealing electricity worth billions from the municipality.
Widespread Non-Compliance
Mayor Kunene emphasized that the raids exposed multiple violations, including:
-
Illegal electricity connections (with entire buildings powered by stolen energy)
-
Labor law violations (exploitative working conditions)
-
Immigration breaches (undocumented workers)
-
Safety hazards (unsanitary and dangerous living spaces)
Authorities also noted that similar raids in recent days uncovered widespread electricity theft by businesses employing undocumented migrants.
Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage
The acting mayor faced backlash for referring to the arrested individuals as “hiding like rats,” drawing criticism for dehumanizing language. Meanwhile, Home Affairs officials stressed the need for stricter enforcement to curb illegal employment and infrastructure abuse.
Ongoing Operations
Law enforcement continues to track down additional suspects, including the fugitive factory owner. The raids highlight Johannesburg’s struggle with undocumented migration, labor exploitation, and municipal resource theft.
