Ethekwini: The eThekwini Municipality has issued a directive urging the public, employers, and transport operators to cease the drop-off of undocumented foreign nationals at the former Durban Drive-In site, emphasizing that the facility is no longer in operation.
According to South African Government News Agency, the municipality clarified that the Drive-In site, previously used as a temporary repatriation facility, has been officially closed. Despite earlier notifications about its closure, there have been continued instances of displaced individuals being left at the site. The municipality expressed concern over employers who persist in bringing undocumented employees to the location.
The municipality stated, "The public, employers and transport operators are urged to refrain from bringing foreign nationals to the site, as no services are being provided there."
The statement highlighted that the temporary repatriation processing for undocumented foreign nationals has now been moved to Musina, Limpopo, under the jurisdiction of the Department of Home Affairs. The municipality stressed that matters concerning undocumented foreign nationals are handled by the Department of Home Affairs and not the municipality.
"As such, the Municipality is not in a position to comment further on the repatriation process. Members of the public and the media are requested to direct all enquiries relating to these matters to the Department of Home Affairs, which is the competent authority to provide information and comment," the municipality added.
In other developments, the municipality reported that the marches conducted on 30 June proceeded peacefully and without major incidents. The municipality commended residents, march organizers, and law enforcement for their roles in ensuring a peaceful demonstration.
"The outcome reflects the importance of constructive civic engagement and public safety," the statement noted.
The municipality also reported that more than 20,000 Malawian nationals were processed and repatriated through the Sherwood and Drive-In sites. For the repatriation operation, over 300 buses were procured, with eThekwini Municipality supplying 150 buses on a cost-recovery basis.
The municipality confirmed the initiation of clean-up efforts at the former Drive-In site to restore the area. "The Municipality has commenced clean-up operations at the Drive-In site to restore the area and remains committed to maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment for residents, businesses and visitors," the statement concluded.