South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs is taking a proactive stance against illegal immigration, deploying a new fleet of deportation buses and utilising drone technology to bolster border security, Minister Leon Schreiber announced this week.
The initiative, launched amidst ongoing efforts to strengthen border control and enforce immigration laws, has already resulted in the deportation of over 200 illegal miners back to Mozambique.
“When you see these buses on the road, know your government is working for you, and we’re working for a South Africa where the rule of law is applied without fear or favour,” Schreiber stated, emphasising the government’s commitment to upholding the law.
He clarified the government’s position on immigration: “Our message is clear: we welcome any traveller, investor, tourist, and any skilled person who wants to follow our laws and help us build South Africa.” This, he stressed, is distinctly different from those who violate the country’s laws.
The deployment of deportation buses represents a significant step in the department’s strategy to address illegal immigration. The initiative aims to streamline the deportation process, ensuring a more efficient and effective response to those found to be in violation of South Africa’s immigration regulations. The initial success, with over 200 illegal miners returned to Mozambique, underscores the effectiveness of this new approach.
Simultaneously, the department is leveraging technological advancements to enhance border security. The Border Management Authority (BMA) has begun utilising drone technology to monitor movement at South African ports of entry. The system, launched on Wednesday, 11 December, at the Lebombo border post, provides aerial surveillance, giving authorities a comprehensive view of border activity.
“The first set of drones to be specifically deployed to five ports of entry throughout this festive period has shown us the power of technology,” Schreiber explained.
“No longer will people move around without us having eyes on them. We now have eyes in the sky and want to send a very clear message to people who want to violate South Africa’s immigration laws. For the very first time, you won’t even know that we are seeing you. We’re above you and around you and watching infringements along the borderline.”
This enhanced surveillance capability is further complemented by the introduction of body cameras for border officials. This measure aims to enhance transparency and accountability, combating corruption and ensuring the safety of officials working in collaboration with the defence force, police, and other law enforcement agencies. Schreiber highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating that it is a crucial step in ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of border control operations.
The department is also implementing operational improvements to better serve citizens. On Monday, 9 December, the BMA temporarily suspended operations for general cargo processing and passenger movement due to unrest in neighbouring Mozambique. However, to improve service delivery during the busy festive season, the department announced an extension of operating hours at Home Affairs offices. These offices will now remain open until 6pm daily, instead of the usual 4pm closing time, until 20 December.
“These extended operating hours and process improvements are part of our commitment to delivering dignity to all our clients,” Schreiber stated.
“We understand that many people are travelling over the festive period, which is why Home Affairs is going the extra mile to ensure South Africans get the documents they need to spend precious time with friends and family.”
This initiative reflects the department’s commitment to providing efficient and accessible services to its citizens, particularly during peak travel periods.
