Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has called for stricter action against illegal immigration, echoing frustrations from communities like Alexandra, where residents recently evicted undocumented foreign nationals from River Park.
The evictions, carried out by locals alongside groups such as Vuka Mzansi and the Last Gado Civic Movement, targeted undocumented migrants accused of hijacking buildings, refusing to pay rent, and, in some cases, involvement in violent crime.
Speaking at an ANC Gauteng lekgotla in Fourways, Lesufi condemned the unchecked presence of undocumented foreigners, particularly in informal settlements.
“We can’t have an informal settlement where over 65% of residents are undocumented foreign nationals. There is no country that would allow people whose identities, origins, and activities are unknown to operate freely,” he said.
He also raised concerns about strained public services, claiming that hospitals are overwhelmed by undocumented migrants who expect treatment without providing identification. “Everyone knows our Ubuntu, but Ubuntu cannot be abused. We can’t surrender our country to criminals,” Lesufi declared.
The recent evictions in River Park followed violent incidents, including a shooting allegedly involving an undocumented migrant. A Last Gado Civic Movement spokesperson said landlords had supported the removals, citing safety concerns.
“A foreigner shot a South African, and the community is scared. Landlords no longer want them because they refuse to pay rent and some are involved in crime,” the spokesperson said. In one case, police recovered stolen goods from an evicted tenant’s room.
Lesufi warned that the era of undocumented migrants “doing as they please” must end, insisting they must either legalize their status or leave. His comments come amid growing anti-immigrant sentiment, with some communities taking vigilante-style actions in the absence of stronger government intervention.
As tensions rise, the debate over immigration policy—balancing humanitarian concerns with law enforcement—remains unresolved. With Gauteng’s government under pressure to act, the Alexandra evictions may signal a broader shift in how South Africa handles illegal immigration.