Three Undocumented Foreigners Employed Illegally Arrested, Business Closed

This week, a concerted effort led by Employment and Labour Minister Nomakhosazana Meth focused on checking compliance within the hospitality sector in Gauteng.

The operation featured surprise inspections in partnership with the Department of Home Affairs, the South African Police Service (SAPS), and the Bargaining Council for Hospitality.

During the inspection of a restaurant in Midrand, it was found that three undocumented foreigners had been illegally employed.

According to Minister Meth, these workers were arrested for being in violation of immigration laws, as they only had visitor visas and were not permitted to work in the country. The restaurant was also in breach of several labour laws, including having expired fire extinguishers, presenting significant safety hazards.

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Further findings revealed numerous violations of labour regulations. For instance, some restaurants were found to be unlawfully deducting tips from their employees’ pay slips.

This practice, which led to underpayment, means that the restaurants owe their employees substantial amounts in tips and commissions, with one establishment in Mandela Square, Sandton, owing as much as R21 million in compensation for occupational injuries and diseases.

The recent blitz inspection highlights the government’s commitment to intensify checks and crackdown on illegal employment. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber announced plans to ramp up inspections at various workplaces such as restaurants, spaza shops, farms, and mines.

These efforts are aimed at ensuring compliance with labour laws and protecting the rights and safety of workers.

It is clear that more stringent measures are being proposed to deter business owners from employing undocumented foreigners and failing to adhere to labour regulations.