A joint by-law enforcement operation conducted by the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) has resulted in the arrest of 42 undocumented foreign nationals and the identification of several businesses violating municipal by-laws in Pretoria West and Pretoria Central.
The operation, carried out on Monday, 7 July 2026, brought together the TMPD, the City’s Electricity Department, Water and Sanitation, Environmental Health Services (EHS), the Department of Home Affairs and Municipal Health Services (MHS) as part of efforts to strengthen compliance with municipal regulations and immigration laws.
In Pretoria West, officials inspected two businesses along Luttig Street and found both to be non-compliant with municipal by-laws. Authorities issued several notices for violations relating to illegal structures, business compliance, waste management and food safety regulations. During the operation, TMPD officers also arrested two undocumented foreign nationals for contravening the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002).
The operation then moved to Pretoria Central, where law enforcement officers arrested 40 undocumented foreign nationals along Madiba Street for contravening the Immigration Act. Two additional businesses were inspected and served with notices for failing to comply with municipal regulations.
Officials also disconnected illegal water connections, while the Department of Home Affairs conducted immigration status verification on 25 individuals during the operation. All arrested suspects were detained at local police stations pending further legal processes.
The TMPD says it remains committed to enforcing municipal by-laws, addressing illegal activities and working with partner departments to ensure businesses operate within the law while protecting the health and safety of residents.
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