EAST LONDON – A total of 71 suspected undocumented foreign nationals were apprehended during an immigration enforcement operation along Buffalo Street in KuGompo (East London) on Saturday, 24 October 2026.
The operation was conducted as part of efforts to enforce South Africa’s immigration laws and ensure compliance with the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.
According to information provided by Lithemba Nyembezi, the individuals were apprehended after allegedly failing to produce valid documentation confirming their legal status in South Africa.
During the operation, one of the suspects was also arrested after allegedly being found in possession of an unlicensed firearm. The firearm was confiscated for further investigation.
The 71 individuals are expected to undergo the relevant immigration verification and legal processes to establish their status in the country and determine whether charges are warranted.
Further legal action is expected to follow where applicable.
Source: Lithemba Nyembezi
Photo: Lithemba Nyembezi
