SA steps up crackdown on undocumented migrants

While many thought tensions over undocumented foreign nationals would ease, South Africa has instead intensified its crackdown as pressure mounts on authorities to take tougher action.

Police and immigration officials have stepped up enforcement operations, arresting undocumented foreign nationals and checking the immigration status of those who come into contact with the criminal justice system.

Those found to have committed criminal offences face legal proceedings, while foreigners found to be unlawfully in the country may subsequently face deportation.

The crackdown follows growing anti-immigration protests, with groups Including March and March and Operation Dudula demanding tougher action against undocumented migrants.

The groups accuse undocumented foreigners of contributing to crime, unemployment and pressure on public services. The government, however, has warned that immigration enforcement must remain within the law and that citizens should not take matters into their own hands.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has directed the Department of Home Affairs, the Border Management Authority, the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to identify and deport undocumented migrants.

The Border Management Authority says it prevented more than 450,000 people from entering South Africa illegally during the previous year.

Authorities are also working towards specialised immigration courts to speed up cases involving undocumented migrants and make deportation procedures more efficient.

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Njabulo Nzuza said the courts would simplify the process of taking undocumented migrants before the courts and deporting those found to have no legal right to remain in the country.

The government is also targeting employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers.

Ramaphosa has warned that companies and individuals who deliberately employ undocumented foreigners could face tougher penalties, including imprisonment after conviction.

The measures come amid growing public frustration over unemployment, crime, competition for economic opportunities and pressure on public services.

Ramaphosa has acknowledged illegal immigration as a policy challenge but warned against blaming foreigners for every problem facing South Africa.

He has maintained that immigration laws must be enforced while protecting human dignity and constitutional rights.

The tensions have also affected neighbouring countries.

More than 900 people were arrested during nationwide anti-immigration demonstrations on June 30, while reports indicated that about 25,000 foreign nationals left South Africa amid fears over their safety.

The departures included thousands of Malawians who returned home through organized transport.

Several African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and Mozambique, have raised concerns over the treatment of their nationals, turning the issue into a wider regional and diplomatic concern.

South African authorities insist that the crackdown targets unlawful immigration rather than people based on nationality or race.

However, officials have warned against vigilantism, xenophobia and violence, stressing that immigration enforcement must follow due process.

The government is also strengthening border controls through technology and biometric systems to track visitors, identify overstayers and close gaps in the immigration system.