Johannesburg, October 3 (Daily Kiran) : South Africa is ramping up its efforts to combat corruption and fraud at its borders and major transit routes. Officials have stated that those found engaging in misconduct may face departmental action, including dismissal and criminal charges.
Michael Masiyapato, the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), announced that the department resolved 57 cases in the last quarter. These cases were related to violations of internal regulations, fraud, corruption, and other misconduct. Additionally, 33 cases are currently under departmental investigation.
Masiyapato shared this information during an anti-corruption campaign at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The initiative involves multiple government and law enforcement agencies, including the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), the Department of Home Affairs, and the National Prosecuting Authority.
According to the news agency Xinhua, Masiyapato indicated that corruption at points of entry and exit may involve border guards, immigration and customs officers, port operators, and other personnel with decision-making authority.
He elaborated that such misconduct could include colluding with travelers or third parties to evade fees and taxes, facilitating the movement of illegal goods, soliciting bribes for routine services, and fraudulently issuing travel or immigration documents.
In February, the SIU reported that South Africa’s immigration system had become akin to a “market,” where permits and visas were sold to those willing to pay more through corrupt networks. These networks reportedly included both government officials and external parties.
At that time, the Department of Home Affairs revealed that over 2,000 fraudulent study visas had been identified as being issued through these networks. The department has initiated administrative processes to revoke these visas.
Addressing corruption within the immigration system is part of a broader strategy by the South African government aimed at migration management, adopted in June. During the announcement of these measures, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening border security, taking strict action against violators of immigration laws, and continuing efforts to eradicate corruption within the immigration system.
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