An illegal foreign national has reportedly sustained injuries while trying to flee from authorities during a Department of Employment and Labour inspection at a non‑compliant construction site in Clayville, Ekurhuleni. The incident occurred as inspectors and law enforcement conducted a compliance blitz targeting employers suspected of using undocumented workers on the site.
What happened at the site
Eyewitness footage and social‑media reports show chaos as several foreign workers attempted to escape as officials arrived. One of the undocumented individuals is said to have fallen or collided with obstacles while fleeing, resulting in visible injuries that required on‑site medical attention. Emergency responders were called in to stabilise the man before he was handed over to police.
Labour and immigration crackdown
The Department of Employment and Labour, working with Ekurhuleni law‑enforcement and Home Affairs units, says the Clayville site failed to comply with labour laws, occupational health and safety standards, and immigration regulations. The operation has led to the arrest of dozens of undocumented foreign nationals, with inspectors also uncovering suspected fraudulent work permits linked to the project.
Future of the construction project
Inspectors have confirmed that the site is under immediate suspension pending a full investigation into permits, safety conditions and contractor compliance. The department has warned that any employer found deliberately hiring undocumented workers on government‑linked or private projects will face legal action and possible permanent closure of their worksites