SAPS and metro police carry out large-scale immigration sweep in Durban’s Point

Law enforcement agencies in KwaZulu-Natal carried out coordinated operations in Durban’s Point precinct targeting undocumented foreign nationals and related offences. The operation, led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) with support from the Durban Metro Police Service, included stop-and-search checks and immigration verification by the Department of Home Affairs.

Operations, street closures and business checks

Several streets in the Point area were closed as SAPS and Metro Police conducted stop-and-search operations. Immigration officials from the Department of Home Affairs verified foreign nationals suspected of being in the country illegally.

Police said that several businesses were closed after operators were found to be either without proper permits or in the country illegally. Arrests were also made for possession of drugs, the police added.

Police statement and purpose

SAPS described the activity as part of ongoing enforcement actions in the province.

“These are routine operations that police undertake from time to time to rid the province of KwaZulu-Natal of undocumented foreign nationals, while Metro Police enforce municipal bylaws and other statutes,”

the police said.

Context ahead of planned demonstrations

Authorities said the operation formed part of wider efforts to ensure safety ahead of planned peaceful demonstrations expected on 30 June. SAPS said the operation was also intended to demonstrate readiness to protect the environment for citizens to exercise their democratic right to stage peaceful marches.

“The operation is also a demonstration that police in KwaZulu-Natal are ready to create a safe and secure environment for South African citizens to exercise their democratic right of staging peaceful marches on 30 June 2026,”

SAPS said.

Concerns and official stance

Police noted concerns over possible tensions linked to the planned demonstrations, which include groups calling for stricter action against undocumented foreign nationals. The government has stated that any violence or targeting of foreign nationals will not be tolerated.