Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi expressed his concern over such actions and confirmed that the individuals have been repatriated to Pakistan at their own expense.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi expressed his concern over such actions and confirmed that the individuals have been repatriated to Pakistan at their own expense.
Johannesburg – A total of 67 Pakistani nationals were detained at OR Tambo International Airport after attempting to enter South Africa without adhering to immigration laws.
The interception, praised by Home Affairs Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, has shed light on a concerning issue within the country’s immigration system.
According to a statement released on Sunday, the Pakistani individuals were denied entry early on August 13, 2023, after failing to pass the immigration test, which included questions about the duration of their visas. These individuals were among the 268 passengers on a flight originating from Dubai.
JUST IN: [WATCH] 67 Pakistan nationals have been intercepted at the OR Tambo International Airport in the early hours of this morning. Home Affairs Minister Aaron Motsoaledi says they were trying to enter the country without complying with the immigration laws.#KayaNews NPM pic.twitter.com/2VW0r0BBHE
— Kaya 959 News (@KayaNews) August 13, 2023
Minister Motsoaledi explained that the apprehension was a result of a meticulously planned sting operation carried out by the Department of Home Affairs Counter Corruption Branch, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), the State Security Agency, and the Border Management Authority (BMA). The operation was prompted by suspicious trends and inconsistencies observed among certain travelers attempting to enter the country.
During the interviews conducted by Immigration Officers, the Pakistani group provided conflicting evidence regarding their travel plans and accommodation arrangements. Some even provided the names of non-existent hotels and alleged relatives who did not exist either. These findings raised red flags for the authorities, ultimately leading to their deportation back to Pakistan at their own expense.
Minister Motsoaledi expressed his concerns about the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strict immigration controls. He lamented, “Essentially, these individuals wanted to come to South Africa, but they were unable to provide coherent explanations regarding their purpose of travel and their planned itinerary. We cannot allow such individuals to enter the country.”
Motsoaledi further stated that several hotels have reported an increase in the number of Pakistani guests booking accommodations but failing to show up. This has resulted in financial losses for the hotels and has limited the availability of rooms for legitimate tourists. The Minister stressed the need for increased vigilance and stricter enforcement to combat this issue.
Moreover, Motsoaledi expressed concern over the abuse of the newly implemented e-Visa system, which was designed to facilitate easier entry for tourists. He warned that some nationals were taking advantage of the system, and the Department of Home Affairs would not tolerate such abuses.
In light of these recent events, South African authorities are set to enhance their efforts to prevent immigration violations, safeguard national security, and protect the interests of genuine tourists and hoteliers.
@centralnewsza
Central News Issue 017: Download the latest weekly edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Stories : “NPA refuse to GIVE UP on embarrassing Nulane matter“
Download Here:
Read our latest publication on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues/
________________________
Central News offers sponsored articles, Print Media, Social Media Marketing, Door To Door Pamphlet Distribution, display branding partnerships, podcast services, newsletters, live streaming , Radio & Television Content Development and paid interviews.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #fscentralnews #nwcentralnews #gautengcentralnews
CENTRAL NEWS
Central News Issue 017: Download the latest weekly edition of Central News Print and Digital Newspaper. Top Stories : “NPA refuse to GIVE UP on embarrassing Nulane matter“