The Department of Employment and Labour conducted a two-day inspection blitz in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, assessing labour law compliance.
The multidisciplinary team arrested 158 illegal immigrants in Newcastle and the surrounding areas.
JOMO SIBIYA CRACKS DOWN ON LABOUR VIOLATIONS
Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya led the crackdown in Newcastle’s industrial area, targeting companies accused of hiring illegal immigrants and contravening the labour laws.
Authorities charged several companies with breaking labour laws and employing undocumented workers.
The blitz involved the Department of Labour, SAPS, Home Affairs, municipal enforcement, and the Bargaining Council.
COMPANIES CONTRAVENE LABOUR LAWS DURING INSPECTION BLITZ
The operation uncovered six companies violating labour laws, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act, UIF, and Compensation Fund requirements.
Sibiya said workers faced exploitation, working for long hours with little to no breaks and earning “peanuts”.
“It’s a vicious cycle. It’s abuse and exploitation of the highest order,” he stressed.
EMPLOYERS AND COMPANIES FACE CONSEQUENCES
Authorities arrested four employers for hiring undocumented workers.
They also closed four companies over issues, ranging from faulty electrical installations to poor compliance with safety standards.
SIBIYA ON FUTURE LABOUR INSPECTIONS
Sibiya said the Newcastle inspection blitz reflects the department’s commitment to ensuring safe, fair, and reliable work conditions across South Africa.
He vowed the blitzes would continue, targeting non-compliant companies and protecting vulnerable workers.
