ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ETHEKWINI ADVANCES REPATRIATION PROCESS AT DRIVE-IN SITE
EThekwini Municipality continues to advance the repatriation of Malawian and other foreign nationals accommodated at the Durban Drive-In Site.
The process is being implemented in partnership with government departments, law enforcement agencies, consular representatives and humanitarian organisations to ensure it is conducted in a safe, orderly and dignified manner.
As of 24 June, twenty-four buses carrying an estimated 1 714 individuals have departed the site as part of the repatriation programme.
Current records indicate that approximately 9 416 people have been registered at the site, comprising 4 522 males, 3 450 females and 1 444 children.
Verification processes remain ongoing as authorities continue to confirm the final number of persons accommodated at the facility.
To improve living conditions while the process continues, the Municipality has deployed additional ablution facilities, while stakeholders have erected further accommodation structures, including a dedicated tent for women.
Cleaning and maintenance operations are also being undertaken regularly.
The Municipality wishes to assure residents, tourism operators and businesses along the beachfront that measures are in place to ensure that normal economic activity and public access to recreational facilities continue uninterrupted.
Significant progress has been made in clearing and cleaning Battery Beach Road.
The beachfront promenade remains open and accessible to residents and visitors, and there are currently no disruptions to tourism activities, beach operations or business trading in the area.
The Municipality remains committed to maintaining public safety, protecting the City's economic interests and ensuring that all humanitarian interventions are managed responsibly and in accordance with the law.
Residents are encouraged to remain calm and rely on official communication channels for verified information regarding developments at the Durban Drive-In Site.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
