As anti-migrant groups intensify pressure ahead of their 30 June ultimatum, South Africa’s Border Management Authority has processed more than 8 000 foreign nationals for voluntary repatriation through the Beitbridge port of entry, with authorities reporting significant administrative challenges.
The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato, said 8 230 persons had been processed to date, with the majority leaving South Africa in the two-week period leading up to the threatened deadline.
Between 12 and 24 June, the BMA successfully processed 6 709 Malawian nationals transported in 112 buses and 1 521 Zimbabwean nationals in 26 buses. All foreign nationals arriving for repatriation are processed in the presence of officials from their respective embassies to verify identity, travel documentation and compliance with immigration requirements.
However, the mass exodus has revealed serious compliance issues. On 25 June 17 buses transporting foreign nationals arrived at the border post without the required Emergency Travel Certificates. The buses were directed to the Musina truck stop area until the necessary documentation was obtained and verified.
“In order to decongest Beitbridge, these buses could not be processed,” Masiapato said.
The BMA also noted that a significant number of buses transporting repatriated foreign nationals are registered in South Africa and do not possess the required cross-border permits. In line with the law, buses without valid cross-border permits are not allowed to cross the border.
Some drivers attempting to transport foreign nationals across the border were found not to be in possession of passports, which is mandatory for cross-border travel.
The BMA called on all transport operators involved in repatriation activities to comply fully with immigration and administrative requirements before arriving at the port of entry. This includes ensuring that buses are roadworthy, drivers are in possession of valid passports, and that all required cross-border permits have been obtained.
Masiapato said the port of entry would not be used as a waiting area for buses and compliance with these requirements would contribute significantly to the smooth and efficient processing of repatriations.
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The authority also called on all foreign nationals participating in voluntary repatriation processes to ensure that they have first been processed by the Department of Home Affairs before presenting themselves at the port of entry.
Department of Home Affairs-related verifications, as well as all South African Police Service clearances, which include ensuring that wanted suspects are not part of the repatriation, must first be completed at the Musina Refugee Reception Centre before arrival at Beitbridge. This measure is necessary to prevent delays within the port environment and to improve the efficiency of processing operations.
“The BMA remains committed to working closely with the Departments of Home Affairs and International Relations and Cooperation, foreign embassies, all law enforcement agencies, border entities and transport operators to ensure that all repatriation processes are conducted in a lawful, safe, dignified and orderly manner,” Masiapato said.
The mass repatriation comes as anti-migrant groups have threatened action against foreign nationals from 30 June, prompting thousands to leave the country voluntarily.
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