By: Briight Ntuli
The Border Management Authority (BMA) says 8,230 Malawian and Zimbabwean nationals have been repatriated through the Beitbridge Port of Entry in less than two weeks as part of ongoing immigration enforcement operations.
The repatriations come ahead of planned anti-illegal immigration marches scheduled to take place across parts of South Africa next Tuesday, with immigration expected to be a key issue raised by demonstrators.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi says foreign nationals identified for repatriation were processed in the presence of officials from their respective embassies to ensure the process complied with legal and administrative requirements.
According to Mogotsi, embassy officials verified the individuals’ identities, confirmed their travel documentation, and ensured they met all applicable immigration requirements before they were returned to their countries of origin.
The authority says the repatriation process is being carried out in line with South Africa’s immigration legislation and international obligations. It adds that working closely with neighbouring countries and diplomatic missions helps ensure that repatriations are conducted in an orderly, lawful, and humane manner.
The BMA says efforts to combat illegal immigration and strengthen border security remain a priority, with operations continuing at ports of entry and other identified hotspots across the country.
