Pic: People taking part in the anti-illegal immigration protest
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Members of the SAPS(South African Police Service) reportedly had their hands full during an anti-illegal immigration march that took place in Middleburg on Tuesday 9 June 2026, leading to an alleged attack on a police Lieutenant-Colonel, and the arrest of 14 suspects.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, said about 2000 people took part in the protest. The 31-year-old suspect accused of assaulting the SAPS member was reportedly arrested together with another suspect for alleged theft after they reportedly engaged in looting.
In addition, Lt-Col Ndubane said 12 undocumented persons were also nabbed, making a total of 14 suspects apprehended in the incident.
“ In the afternoon of the said day, some protesters reportedly became unruly. One group is said to have entered a residential complex (Flats) and engaged in searches. It was during this period when the Police Officer was reportedly assaulted and sustained some injuries as he was busy trying to maintain order,” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
According to Lt-Col Ndubane, about 39 foreign nationals were processed during the March where 27 were cleared and released after verification conducted by the police in conjunction with officials from the Department of Home Affairs. As a result, 12 foreign nationals were reportedly charged with Contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa after discovering that they had no valid documentation to be in the country.
“ Police further confiscated approximately 64 grams of suspected drugs, as well as recovered six cellular phones, a Lenovo laptop, and a replica firearm (toy gun) with a holster. Two laptops, a packet of sea salt, and a red box containing cash were recovered as well, then handed back to their lawful owners.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the attack on law enforcement officers will not be tolerated.
“We want to put it clear that we will never tolerate lawlessness nor acts of violence and vigilantism. We will surely act against those who attack our members and deal decisively with those who undermines the rule of law. People have the right to protest however this should be done within the ambit of the law, ” said the General Mkhwanazi.
All arrested suspects are reportedly expected to appear at the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 11 June 2026.
The suspect arrested for theft has been reportedly placed under Police guard after being admitted in hospital as sustained injuries. The other suspec for allegedly assaulting the Lieutenant-Colonel is facing a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
“ The Police in the Province of Mpumalanga are also monitoring the protest in Ermelo (in the Gert Sibande District) taking place today (10 June 2026). Protesters are continuously urged to refrain from violence and engaging in criminality,” Lt-Col Ndubane.
