Deputy Minister, Jomo Sibiya leads High-Impact Joint Blitz Inspection Conducted in Tshwane
The Department of Employment and Labour, led by Deputy Minister Jomo Sibiya, on Friday spearheaded a multidisciplinary high-impact joint inspection blitz in the Pretoria/Tshwane region aimed at enforcing compliance with labour and immigration legislation, as well as addressing criminality in the area.
The operation, which forms part of a strengthened government approach following resolutions of the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) cluster, was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Police Service (SAPS), Tshwane Metropolitan Police Department (TMPD), Gauteng Crime Wardens and the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA).
The inspections focused on ensuring compliance with key labour laws, including the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), National Minimum Wage (NMW) Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), Unemployment Insurance Act (UIA), and the Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act (COIDA).
These efforts form part of the Department’s broader mandate to promote fair labour practices, safeguard vulnerable workers, and advocate for safe and compliant workplaces. Labour inspectors, empowered by legislation, exercised their authority to enter premises without prior notice to assess compliance and take necessary enforcement action.
During the operation, several premises were inspected, including City Medical West of Pretoria and businesses within the Pretoria central business district. The inspections uncovered serious allegations and instances of non-compliance, including the employment of undocumented foreign nationals and violations of labour laws.
As a result of the operation, a total of 35 foreign nationals were detained and taken to Pretoria West Police Station for further processing.
Legal action was instituted without delay. Three individuals were charged under Section 49(6) for contravening visa conditions by engaging in work while on visitor visas. In addition, two employers were charged for employing 32 undocumented foreign nationals and three individuals without valid work visas.
A further arrest was made involving an employer accused of aiding illegal immigration by employing undocumented workers. In addressing safety and compliance concerns identified during inspections, the City of Tshwane was also requested to disconnect electricity at certain premises.
Deputy Minister Sibiya emphasised the importance of ensuring visible impact through such coordinated operations, reaffirming government’s commitment to decisive enforcement of labour and immigration legislation.
The Department reiterates that these inspections are not only punitive in nature but are also aimed at advancing social justice, protecting workers from exploitation, and ensuring that all employers operate within the bounds of the law.
Deputy Minister, Jomo Sibiya calls on all employers to comply fully with labour and immigration legislation, to ensure that all employees are properly documented, and to maintain safe and fair working conditions.
Workers are encouraged to be aware of their rights and to report any instances of exploitation or unsafe practices. Communities are further urged to support law enforcement efforts by reporting suspected non-compliance or unlawful activities. Government will continue to intensify joint inspections and take firm action against non-compliant employers in pursuit of a fair, safe and just labour market for all.
Media Enquiries:
Teboho Thejane
Departmental Spokesperson
Cell: 082 697 0694
Email: teboho.thejane@labour.gov.za
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