Pretoria: Government has issued a stern warning against individuals impersonating Home Affairs officials conducting unlawful identity searches on foreign nationals, saying those involved in intimidation, extortion and other illegal activities will face the full might of the law. Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said this on Sunday as the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Migration provided an update on the implementation of government's Five-Point Plan on Migration Management.
According to South African Government News Agency, Kubayi highlighted the increasing concern over unauthorized identity checks on foreign nationals by individuals falsely claiming to be officials from the Department of Home Affairs. The Minister emphasized that those engaged in these illegal activities should desist or face legal consequences. The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been tasked with investigating reported incidents, and seven suspects have been arrested in Polokwane.
Kubayi further warned against obstructing lawful law enforcement operations, referencing a recent confrontation in Bellville between officers and foreign nationals. The reported death of an individual during this operation is under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), with findings to be disclosed upon completion.
The Minister also addressed progress in implementing the Five-Point Plan on Migration Management, which aims to enhance migration management, secure borders, and uphold human dignity, social cohesion, and human rights. The plan is reportedly producing results through stronger law enforcement, improved border security, and policy reforms.
Integrated operations involving various law enforcement agencies continue targeting criminal networks exploiting migration vulnerabilities, with 354 cases of arrests and prosecutions recorded. A significant breakthrough was noted with the seizure of a R100 million property linked to a crystal meth laboratory.
On border security, Kubayi mentioned the ongoing efforts of the Border Management Authority to strengthen surveillance and improve coordination with security agencies. A memorandum for critical borderline infrastructure projects will be presented to Cabinet, with redevelopment plans for six major ports of entry underway.
Collaboration with neighboring countries is a key focus, with intensified engagements to manage migration, documentation, and repatriation processes. Migration and allegations of Afrophobia in South Africa are set to be discussed at the upcoming African Union Heads of State Summit.
Legislative reforms are also being reviewed to bolster migration management, with discussions planned across various sectors on employment and economic impacts. The IMC is working with municipalities to address issues like hijacked buildings, land invasions, and illegal activities, with a framework and operational plan in development.
Concluding the briefing, Kubayi reaffirmed the government's commitment to a migration system that protects national interests while upholding constitutional values. Regular updates will be provided to ensure public access to accurate information on migration management. - SAnews.gov.za
