On July 19, 2024, South African officials conducted a joint operation resulting in the apprehension of 208 individuals without proper documentation in the Sekhukhune District of Limpopo Province. The detainees included 176 Zimbabweans, alongside individuals from Mozambique and India.
The operation commenced on the evening of July 18 and concluded the next day, focusing on illegal activities in Marble Hall and Groblersdall areas. Those apprehended were repatriated to their respective countries, except for the Indian nationals who remained in custody pending deportation.
In addition to the arrests, authorities seized a white Toyota Hilux pickup truck containing suspected stolen oranges and a plasma TV discovered in a local farm room. The detained individuals are facing charges under South Africa’s Immigration Act.
This crackdown is part of South Africa’s broader efforts to combat illegal immigration and allegations of job competition. Some farmers have expressed concerns about potential negative impacts on agricultural production, as South Africans often avoid certain types of labor despite limited educational opportunities. Economists suggest that while immediate effects may be minimal, the long-term consequences for South Africa’s agricultural sector could be significant.
In other news – Mukanya calls for full dismantling of Zanu-PF rule
Exiled musician Thomas Mapfumo has urged for a complete overhaul of Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu-PF, despite President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent pledge not to seek another term beyond 2028.
Mnangagwa made this promise during a speech in Mutare while inaugurating a processing plant at Mutare Teachers’ College. He asserted that his current term will be his last, emphasizing plans for succession at an upcoming party congress. Mapfumo, a vocal critic of Mnangagwa’s government, dismissed the president’s assurances as insincere. Read More
