The South African Government announced that an intensive immigration enforcement programme is being rolled out across the whole country, resulting in over 53,000 foreigners being deported as part of this initiative in order to improve border security and combat transnational crime and deal with undocumented immigrants.
The government’s large-scale operation is part of an ongoing campaign to bolster the country’s immigration laws and deter illegal crossers as well as concerns over human trafficking, document fraud and organised criminal networks.
Deportations have taken place after verification exercises, some immigration inspections and coordinated operations by law enforcement and border management authorities were noted by the officials.
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The campaign has also led to the arrest of thousands of migrants who are not on legal immigration visas, the destruction of photo pass fraud ring and heightened security measures at land borders and ports across Africa, officials said. The government prohibits discrimination in deportation in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations.
The announcement coincides with a strong increase in public discourse on migration, employment and public services delivery in South Africa.
Government officials have timely pointed out the need for more restrictive immigration to bolster national security, enhance border security procedures, and keep its immigration system intact.
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The deportation numbers have been met with mixed reactions from civil society organisations and migration experts. Some have expressed approbation at the enforcement of anti-migration laws and a tougher stance on cross-border criminal business but others have pushed for provisions to ensure the protection of asylum seekers, refugees and other vulnerable groups under international humanitarian principles and that they have access to due process.
The development follows regular diplomatic discussions between South Africa and other countries in Africa on the treatment of foreigners in South Africa, including xenophobic attacks and the rights of migrants.
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South African authorities stated that while they will continue to increase enforcement, they are still committed to legal migration and regional cooperation.
Authorities urged foreigners living in the country to formalise their stay on a regular basis, and reiterated that illegal immigration will not go unchecked.
