Eswatini Receives Second Batch of US-Deported Criminals Amid South African Security Concerns
Mbabane, 08 October 2025 – The Kingdom of Eswatini has confirmed the arrival of a second group of 10 third-country nationals deported from the United States, marking another step in a controversial agreement that has raised alarms in neighbouring South Africa over potential security risks. Officials from His Majesty’s Correctional Services say the deportees, who are not Eswatini citizens, are being held in secure facilities and pose no immediate threat.
This follows the first batch of five individuals who arrived in August 2025, sparking “deep concern” from Pretoria about immigration protocols and regional stability. The US has described the deportees as convicted of serious crimes, including murder and child rape, but Eswatini insists they will be repatriated to their home countries within 12 months. As part of broader US deportation policies under the Trump administration, this move has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who accuse Washington of using African nations as a “dumping ground” for unwanted criminals. With porous borders and shared concerns, South African authorities are monitoring closely, summoning Eswatini’s high commissioner for talks. This development highlights tensions in international migration deals and their impact on local safety.
The arrivals have ignited debates on ethics and security, with Eswatini defending the process as orderly while assuring quick onward repatriation.
Details of the Latest Arrivals and Eswatini’s Response
On Monday, 06 October 2025, Eswatini’s correctional services welcomed the 10 deportees, who originated from countries like Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Cuba, and Yemen. Assistant Chief Officer Baphelele Kunene confirmed their good health and ongoing admission processes at a secure facility.
“The nationals who arrived today are in good health and undergoing admission processes,” Kunene said. “They pose no immediate threat to public safety and remain under strict supervision and care within the department’s facilities.”
Kunene emphasised that inmate information stays confidential, accessible only to authorised parties under the Correctional Services Act. The government is working with local and international partners, including the International Organisation for Migration, to facilitate their repatriation.
This group follows the first five deportees in August, convicted of heinous crimes such as murder and child rape, who were also assured to be no risk. Eswatini has committed to humane treatment, aligning with national laws and global standards.
South Africa’s Deep Concerns and Diplomatic Actions
South Africa expressed alarm over the initial arrivals in August 2025, summoning Eswatini’s High Commissioner for discussions on immigration implications. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation voiced “deep concern” about the deportees’ profiles and potential effects on national security due to proximity.
Government spokesperson Gerson Msigwa and DIRCO’s Clayson Monyela highlighted worries over the lack of clarity on the deportees’ final destinations. South Africa fears that porous borders could allow these individuals to enter the country, prompting heightened vigilance.
In response, Eswatini assured Pretoria that the deportees would not cross borders and would be repatriated within a year. Acting spokesperson Thabile Mdluli reiterated that they are securely held at Sidwashini maximum-security prison, about 30 km from the South African border.
The US-Eswatini Deportation Agreement and Broader Criticisms
The deportations stem from a US-Eswatini deal, where Washington sends “third-country nationals” – individuals whose home countries refuse them – to Eswatini. The US Department of Homeland Security described the deportees as convicted of serious offences, including child rape and murder.
Human rights groups, like the Southern Africa Litigation Centre, have criticised the arrangement, accusing the US of using Africa as a “dumping ground” for criminals. They mounted legal challenges to block the flights, but Eswatini proceeded, citing a $5.1 million (about R90 million) agreement.
The Trump administration’s policy aims to deport undocumented criminals rejected by their origins, rerouting them to willing nations like Eswatini. Critics argue this burdens small countries with security risks, potentially destabilising the region.
Implications for Regional Security and Public Safety
South African experts warn that weak borders could let these individuals slip in, posing threats. The Presidency has engaged Eswatini’s leadership to clarify plans, emphasising no entry into South Africa.
Eswatini maintains the deportees are isolated and monitored, with repatriation underway via international bodies. “The Eswatini government continues to collaborate with relevant local and international stakeholders to facilitate the group’s orderly repatriation,” Kunene said.
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