A large-scale peaceful demonstration unfolded in Witbank today, Thursday, 4 June 2026, as approximately 1,500 participants gathered at a park in Vosman before proceeding to the Witbank Central Business District (CBD). The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga confirmed the event commenced around 09:00 under close police supervision.
Officers from SAPS, working alongside additional law enforcement partners, were deployed throughout the route to safeguard participants, motorists, and residents within the Emalahleni Local Municipality, which falls under the Nkangala District.
The demonstration remained orderly throughout, with no significant disruptions reported. It concluded with delegates formally presenting a memorandum outlining their concerns to the Executive Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality.
As part of routine verification procedures during the gathering, officials from the Department of Home Affairs screened foreign nationals in attendance. This process identified 14 individuals who could not produce valid documentation authorizing their presence in South Africa. All 14 were taken into custody and formally charged under applicable immigration laws.
Commenting on the operation, Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, underscored the balance between protecting constitutional rights and enforcing the law.
“While communities have the right to raise their concerns through lawful and peaceful means, we strongly discourage any form of vigilantism,” Major General Mkhwanazi stated. “We encourage people to work together with law enforcement agencies and report criminal activities through the proper legal channels.”
SAPS reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to collaborative policing, noting that visible patrols and coordinated operations with partner agencies will continue to promote public safety and legal compliance across the province.
The 14 undocumented foreign nationals remain in police custody as immigration and legal processes proceed.