The MMC for Public Safety, Dr Cllr Mgcini Tshwaku, has praised a joint police operation in Mayfair, Johannesburg, which led to the arrest of hundreds of Illegal Foreigners for breaking the Immigration Act.
The operation, held on 18 November 2025, involved the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), South African Police Service (SAPS), and the Department of Home Affairs.
During the operation, 217 women and 413 men were taken into custody for being in South Africa without valid papers. Home Affairs officials are handling all detainees in line with the law.
Dr Tshwaku praised the skill and work of all agencies, saying: “This operation is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together decisively. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven interventions to restore safety and order in our communities.”
Focus on Criminal Syndicates
The MMC said more operations like this are planned across Johannesburg. He added that the JMPD’s Tactical Response Unit (TRU) and K9 Unit will look more closely at criminal groups suspected of human trafficking and helping people enter the country illegally.
The operation is part of the City’s bigger plan for crime prevention and law enforcement. Officials said the work shows how important it is for different police groups to work together.
Mayfair has been flagged as an area with a high level of illegal immigration and related crime. Officials said the operation should stop more lawbreaking and make law enforcement stronger in the area.
Dr Tshwaku said such operations will keep happening, making sure police act fast to protect communities. He said authorities are focused on enforcing immigration rules while keeping detainees’ rights safe.
The City said Home Affairs will process all detainees according to the law. MMC Tshwaku added: “We are committed to keeping our communities safe and restoring order. Collaborative operations like this send a strong message to those who seek to break the law.”
Updates will come soon on results of future operations and ongoing work to keep Johannesburg safe through smart, intelligence-led policing.
