South Africa Deports Over 53,000 Foreign Nationals in Migration Crackdown
Government says campaign targets undocumented migration while upholding human rights.
- Over 53,000 foreign nationals deported or repatriated.
- Most deportees are from Malawi, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
- Government urges public not to take immigration enforcement into their own hands.
The South African government says more than 53,000 foreign nationals have been deported or repatriated since launching a nationwide migration management campaign five weeks ago.
According to authorities, most of those affected are citizens of Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, with officials indicating that the number is expected to increase as the operation continues.
The campaign marks one of South Africa’s largest crackdowns on undocumented migration in recent years. It follows weeks of anti-immigration protests during which demonstrators demanded stricter border controls and the removal of undocumented migrants, with some protests reportedly involving violence, intimidation, and looting.
Protesters have argued that undocumented migration has contributed to rising unemployment, increasing crime, and pressure on public services. However, the United Nations has cautioned against blaming migrants for the country’s socioeconomic challenges.
Anti-immigration groups have vowed to continue holding weekly demonstrations until their demands are met. They had previously issued an unofficial deadline of June 30 for undocumented migrants to leave the country, prompting many foreign nationals to depart amid concerns over their safety.
In recent weeks, several African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda, and Kenya, have organised flights to repatriate their citizens from South Africa.
Speaking at a news conference in Pretoria, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi said 53,499 foreign nationals had been processed for deportation or repatriation, with Malawians making up the largest group, followed by Zimbabweans and Mozambicans.
Kubayi said the government’s objective is to promote orderly and lawful migration while respecting the human rights and dignity of everyone living in the country, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
She added that the ongoing operation has also enabled law enforcement agencies to identify individuals wanted for alleged criminal offences.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws but warned members of the public against carrying out unauthorised searches of homes and businesses suspected of harbouring undocumented migrants.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has acknowledged public concerns over immigration while condemning attacks on foreign nationals, urging citizens to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties.
As Africa’s most industrialised economy, South Africa has long attracted migrants seeking employment and better economic opportunities, including many who enter the country without legal documentation.
