BY LERATO PHOSISI
A peaceful march of an estimated 1,500 residents through Witbank’s CBD in Mpumalanga ended Thursday with 14 undocumented foreign nationals in custody, as South African police vowed continued vigilance against both crime and vigilantism.
The demonstration began at 09h00 from Vosman Park and wound through Emalahleni Local Municipality to the municipal offices in Witbank Central Business District. Organizers handed a memorandum to the Executive Mayor outlining community grievances.
Police, working alongside other law enforcement units, monitored the route and maintained order throughout. SAPS Mpumalanga confirmed the march proceeded without major incidents or disruption to traffic and public safety.
During the event, the Department of Home Affairs conducted routine verification of foreign nationals participating in the march. Officials determined that 14 individuals lacked valid documentation to remain in South Africa. They were arrested on the scene and charged in accordance with immigration law.
Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, said police would continue supporting lawful protest while enforcing the law without exception.
“While communities have the right to raise concerns through peaceful, legal means, we strongly discourage any form of vigilantism,” Mkhwanazi stated. “We urge residents to partner with law enforcement and report suspected criminal activity through proper channels.”
The march reflects growing community pressure in Mpumalanga over immigration and public safety concerns, but Thursday’s event was noted by authorities as an example of orderly civic action
