35 Undocumented Foreign Nationals Arrested in Chris Hani Ahead of June 30 March

Police in the Chris Hani District have arrested 35 undocumented foreign nationals and issued fines totalling R21,000 during the first day of a large-scale operational deployment ahead of the anticipated nationwide June 30 protests against illegal immigration.

According to a media statement issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in the Eastern Cape, members of the South African Police Service launched the operation on 28 June 2026 under the banner of the June 30 Operational Deployment, two days before the expected nationwide “March and March” protest.

The operation focused on conducting high-visibility patrols in suburbs and business areas, identifying undocumented foreign nationals in workplaces and public spaces, preventing assaults, looting and damage to foreign-owned properties, and carrying out stop-and-search operations on major roads and streets.

Police confirmed that 35 foreign nationals were arrested for being in the country without valid documentation. A further 17 foreign nationals were fined a combined R21,000 for possessing expired permits.

The majority of those arrested or fined were nationals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia and Bangladesh.

During business inspections in Michausdal in Nxuba, police said an Ethiopian shop owner fled and locked his premises upon seeing police officers approaching. Four suspects, aged between 33 and 55, allegedly took advantage of the situation by breaking into the shop and stealing various items.

The suspects were immediately arrested while still in possession of the stolen goods and are expected to appear in the Nxuba Magistrate’s Court soon.

In addition to the immigration operation, motorists were issued traffic fines exceeding R10,000 for various traffic offences.

District Commissioner Major General Rudolph Adolph commended his officers for their dedication and vigour in executing their duties under the June 30 Operational Deployment. He expressed optimism for continued successes as the operation unfolds.

Police say the operation will continue across the district as law enforcement agencies prepare for the planned protest action and work to maintain public safety and order.

This article is based on an official SAPS media statement issued by the Office of the Provincial Commissioner in the Eastern Cape.