KUGOMPO CITY – A joint law-enforcement operation at Hemingways Mall in KuGompo City on Friday, 6 November 2026, resulted in the apprehension of 57 foreign nationals who allegedly failed to produce valid documentation authorising their stay in South Africa.
The operation was conducted by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Services, the South African Police Service (SAPS) Cambridge and the Eastern Cape Missing Person and Trafficking Unit.
The operation formed part of ongoing efforts by law-enforcement agencies to strengthen immigration compliance and enforce South Africa’s immigration legislation.
Under the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, foreign nationals are required to comply with the country’s immigration laws and possess valid documentation authorising their presence and stay in South Africa.
The 57 individuals apprehended during the operation are expected to appear before the KuGompo Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 November 2026, where they will undergo the necessary legal processes.
Employers found to have employed foreign nationals without the required legal documentation were also issued with fines in accordance with applicable immigration legislation.
The participating law-enforcement agencies reaffirmed their commitment to conducting joint operations aimed at promoting compliance with immigration laws and addressing violations across the Eastern Cape.
The allegations against the apprehended individuals remain subject to the relevant legal processes.
Source: Report by Mihlali Mngaza.
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