Foreign Nationals Arrested During Immigration Operation in Peddie.

Several foreign nationals were arrested during a joint immigration enforcement operation conducted in Peddie, Eastern Cape, on Friday, 16 October 2026.

The operation was carried out by the Eastern Cape Missing Persons and Trafficking Unit in collaboration with Immigration Services and the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Peddie.

According to information released about the operation, the individuals were arrested for alleged contraventions of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002 after reportedly failing to produce valid documentation confirming their legal status in South Africa.

The operation formed part of ongoing collaborative efforts by law enforcement agencies to address immigration-related offences and strengthen compliance with South African immigration legislation.

The initiative also aimed to promote public safety through coordinated law enforcement activities.

The exact number of individuals arrested was not specified, and no further information regarding possible court appearances was provided.

Source: Lithemba Nyembezi | Photographs: Siphokazi Maphondla