The KwaZulu-Natal provincial government has warned landlords in South Africa that they risk arrest if they rent accommodation to undocumented foreign nationals.
The warning was issued by KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli during a community crime-fighting imbizo held in Mzingazi, northern KwaZulu-Natal, where residents and community leaders gathered on Wednesday to discuss measures aimed at reducing crime.
According to local reports, the premier’s comments followed concerns raised by traditional leaders, who alleged that some rented cottages and residential properties have become safe havens for criminals whose identities are difficult to trace after committing offences.
Addressing the gathering, Ntuli urged property owners to verify the identity of prospective tenants before allowing them to occupy their buildings.
He said landlords should request valid identification documents from all tenants as part of efforts to improve public safety and strengthen accountability within communities.
The premier also appealed to residents to report landlords suspected of accommodating undocumented foreign nationals, stating that law enforcement agencies could take action against both the occupants and property owners found to be violating the law.
Ntuli stressed that community participation remains essential in the fight against crime, adding that stricter compliance with immigration regulations at the local level could help prevent criminals from exploiting undocumented residency to evade law enforcement.
The KwaZulu-Natal government said it will continue working with communities and security agencies to strengthen crime prevention efforts and improve public safety across the province.
