19/06/2026
Community March in Bethal Highlights Concerns Over Illegal Immigration and Unregistered Spaza Shops
Residents gathered in Bethal today for the much-anticipated Community March, which was aimed at raising concerns about issues affecting the local community, including the operation of allegedly illegal immigrant-run businesses and the proliferation of unregistered spaza shops.
The march, which started at the Emzinoni Ntlame Community Hall, saw community members walking peacefully through parts of the town while voicing their frustrations and calling for greater accountability and law enforcement.
Notably, no memorandum was handed over at the conclusion of the march. Organisers and participants instead used the gathering as an opportunity to demonstrate community solidarity and highlight their concerns publicly.
Ahead of the protest action, many of the spaza shops scattered across the area had already closed and cleared their premises in anticipation of the march. Residents said this was a visible indication that business owners were aware of the planned demonstration.
Among the key issues raised by participants was the concern that some businesses in the area are allegedly being operated by individuals who are in the country illegally or who may not be complying with relevant immigration and business regulations. Marchers called on authorities to investigate these allegations and to ensure that all businesses operate within the law.
The event remained peaceful throughout, with community members emphasising that their objective was to encourage lawful business practices, strengthen local economic opportunities, and promote community safety.
Authorities have not yet indicated whether any follow-up action will be taken regarding the concerns raised during the march.
