The large-scale enforcement campaign, which resulted in hundreds of workplace inspections, business closures and arrests, will continue as government steps up efforts to protect workers’ rights. It also aims to improve workplace safety and clamp down on the employment of undocumented foreign nationals.

The department of employment and labour coordinated one of its largest multi-departmental inspection blitzes on Friday (24/7). Nationally, officials inspected 114 workplaces, with only three found to be fully compliant. The operation resulted in the arrest of 137 foreign nationals.

The inspections targeted noncompliance with employment legislation, immigration laws, municipal by-laws and criminal offences related to illegal residence and employment.

“We are going to continue to conduct all these across the country,” said Sibiya. “We have been doing this work for some time, and now we have ramped up things. When we collaborate, we see results.

“This is about enforcing the laws of the country, and as a government we cannot allow the employment of illegals to continue. We want to cut the demand because the employment of illegal foreigners is being done deliberately.”

In the Free State, more than ten foreign-owned businesses were closed during a joint inspection conducted in Bloemfontein’s East End business park and central business district.

“Our inspections uncovered three foreign nationals who were employed without the required documentation or valid work permit,” said Free State labour provincial manager Malibongwe Ndlela. “Home affairs processed the individuals in terms of the Immigration Act, while employers found to be in contravention face the necessary legal consequences.

“We closed approximately ten businesses that posed safety risks due to non-compliance with electricity regulations, inadequate fire safety measures and other violations of labour legislation.

“These inspections are about more than enforcement. They aim to ensure that employers provide safe working environments, comply with labour laws, and treat employees fairly. Businesses that continue to ignore the law should expect firm action.”

Mangaung public safety spokesperson Teboho Khaobane said many businesses were operating with illegal electricity connections.

“They don't have the proper documentation showing that their electricity connections have been approved,” said Khaobane. “These violations place compliant businesses at a disadvantage and result in significant financial losses for Centlec and the municipality.”

Meanwhile, a similar joint blitz inspection in Mahikeng, North West, revealed persistent non-compliance in the construction sector.

‘In North West, six contravention notices and 23 compliance orders were issued’

Inspectors assessed seven employers, including one main contractor and six subcontractors, against labour legislation. While all were compliant with the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act, several failed to comply with occupational health and safety, unemployment insurance and minimum wage requirements.

Provincial chief inspector Chris Sithole said six contravention notices and 23 compliance orders were issued.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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