The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government in South Africa has warned that landlords who rent accommodation to illegal immigrants risk arrest as authorities intensify the enforcement of immigration laws amid renewed anti-foreigner tensions.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Thami Ntuli, issued the warning during a community security meeting in northern KwaZulu-Natal, urging landlords to verify the identity documents of prospective tenants before offering them accommodation.

According to him, landlords who harbour undocumented immigrants could face prosecution alongside the affected tenants. He also urged residents to report landlords suspected of accommodating illegal immigrants to the police.

The warning followed concerns by traditional leaders that some rental properties have become hideouts for criminals who are difficult to trace after committing offences.

Ntuli said stronger community cooperation and stricter enforcement of immigration laws would help address crime and prevent criminal elements from exploiting loopholes in the system.

The development comes amid renewed anti-foreigner sentiment in South Africa, where campaigners have continued to demand the removal of undocumented immigrants. The situation has also prompted the Nigerian Government to evacuate hundreds of Nigerians who voluntarily indicated interest in returning home.