By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
The South African government has expressed that they will not be taking illegal immigration lightly and has continued to affirm that they are fully in control of the situation.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi chaired the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration which aims to conceive measures that will address the challenges of illegal immigration and was formed by President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The committee is responsible for overseeing the implementation of a variety of different measures and interventions which have been outlined by Ramaphosa during his nation address last week.
Ramaphosa highlighted five key objectives that will be aimed at tackling illegal immigration which focus on stronger border control and security, upholding rule of law, curbing lawlessness, strengthening migration laws and eradicating corruption.
“The BMA and other law enforcement agencies have instituted static checkpoints or roadblocks at key corridors leading to the critical parts such as Beitbridge to ensure effective interception of anybody attempting to enter South Africa illegally” said Minister Kubayi.
She had also highlighted intelligence driven operations, roadblocks as well as thorough compliance inspections which have already been effective in identifying and arresting illegal immigrants.
Minister Kubayi has also added that joint law enforcement operations have been bolstered in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape that are targeting violations in immigration laws.
A total of 2,754 foreign nationals have been repatriated to their home countries ever since Ramaphosa had made his announcement regarding the plans to handle the challenges of illegal immigration.
“The South African government will not tolerate the circumvention of our immigration systems and laws” said Kubayi.
The government has also highlighted that they will require more than 1,000 buses in order to facilitate the repatriation of over 7000 Malawian foreign nationals who are currently stranded in Sherwood, Durban.
This repatriation effort has also followed escalating protests that have been demanding that illegal immigrants leave the country by 30 June. “We are committed to ensure the safe return of our citizens. Our transport requirements have drastically increased, and more than 1,000 buses are essential to facilitate this effort efficiently” said Kubayi.