By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider 

The chairperson of parliament’s Correctional Services portfolio committee stated that there is a growing number of foreign nationals in South African prisons which is proving a grave concern.

According to figures from the Department of Correctional Services have shown that the country’s prisons currently hold 27,880 foreign nationals.14,614 of these foreign national prisoners are currently awaiting trial and 13,266 of them are currently serving prison sentences.

 Portfolio Committee chairperson, Kgomotso Ramolobeng, stated in an interview with eNCA that speeding up legislative reforms and continuing to strengthen bilateral agreements with countries in Southern Africa will surely help in reducing pressure on South Africa’s correctional facilities. 

“If that can be spread or outlined throughout SADC countries it will yield positive results of having all those who are already sentenced. Also being able to be sent to their countries of origin to finish their sentences” said Ramolobong. 

Ramobolong also stated that authorities are currently waiting for the amendments to legislation that requires people who are imprisoned in South Africa to remain within the borders of the country until their sentences have been served.

 The Border Management Authority (BMA) stated that they process 8,230 foreign nationals through the Beitridge Port of Entry. The authorities have also processed 6,709 Malawian Nationals and have travelled via 112 buses and 1,521 Zimbabweans have been transported in 26 buses during the periods of 12 to 14 June. 

Due to failure to comply with documentation and cross-border requirements, the BMA  warned that transport operators may experience some delays in operations.