The Msunduzi Municipality says it is fast-tracking efforts to repatriate more than 1 600 undocumented Malawian nationals currently sheltering at Mayor's Walk in Pietermaritzburg, amid growing concerns over planned nationwide anti-illegal immigration protests on June 30.
Municipal spokesperson Ntobeko Mkhize says the area being occupied is not an official accommodation facility.
"It has not been designated or approved as a formal site by the municipality or any governing authority," Mkhize said.
The migrants have been staying in a condemned government building at Mayor's Walk after relocating from other parts of the city. Many said they fled to the site after receiving threats following the killing of a Malawian national at the Jika Joe Informal Settlement last week.
The body of the 29-year-old man was discovered on Friday after he was allegedly attacked and chased by a group of people.
Msunduzi Mayor Mzimkhulu Thebolla visited the site on Monday to assess conditions as the number of people seeking refuge there continues to rise.
The municipality says the growing population at Mayor's Walk has necessitated an urgent and coordinated response.
Mkhize says officials are currently profiling those at the site and aim to close the temporary shelter within three days.
"Due to the rapid growth in numbers and the need to safeguard the welfare of those at the site, the municipality has mobilised immediate support measures. Water tanks have been provided, security has been strengthened through a combined effort involving private security, municipal security and the SAPS, while arrangements have been made for temporary ablution facilities," she said.
Meanwhile, police say they will meet with all provincial premiers this week to strengthen coordination ahead of the planned protests on June 30.
Authorities say the objective is to ensure that demonstrations are conducted peacefully and within the confines of the law.
The nationwide security operation to monitor and respond to the protests is expected to cost taxpayers about R600 million.
During a media briefing on Monday, police warned protesters against carrying weapons of any kind, including traditional weapons such as spears.
"Our members are instructed to facilitate peaceful protests while taking firm action against any criminality, violence, intimidation and damage to property," Acting National Police Commissioner Puleng Dimpane said.
Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert as tensions around illegal immigration continue to rise in several parts of the country.