In response to a question posed by the Honourable Tebogo Mogale, Leon Schreiber, the Minister of Home Affairs, addressed the procedures that his department has in place to prevent the re-entry of the 46,898 unauthorised foreign nationals deported in the 2024/25 financial year into South Africa. Several sturdy processes and procedures have been put into place by the department in order to handle this situation, according to an explanation from the Minister.
The utilisation of cutting-edge technology, which enhances the security of borders and the processes used to verify passports, is one of the most important strategies. This includes digital entry and exit systems that utilise facial recognition technology to verify the identities of passengers. The technology compares the biometric data of the individual at the border to the data that has been recorded. This makes it far more difficult for deported individuals to return illegally by using fraudulent or counterfeit documents.
In addition, the Minister emphasised the automation of visa application and approval processes, which eliminates potential for corruption and human mistake that may otherwise result in individuals entering the country without authorisation. In order to guarantee that only legitimate visa holders are granted access, this method necessitates the submission of online applications that include passport scans and biometric information.
Furthermore, the department has initiated Operation New Broom, as well as other enforcement efforts targeting illegal immigrants in metropolitan areas. These operations are intended to identify and remove undocumented individuals. They also involve working with law enforcement to prevent these individuals from illegally entering the country again.
These technology changes and enforcement actions are designed to work in tandem to prevent deported foreign people from illegally returning, according to the Minister. They offer a border environment that is more safe and more robust, which respects the immigration rules of South Africa while also enabling legal migration.
In conclusion, the Minister made it clear that the department is committed to utilising innovative technology, strong enforcement, and improved data management in order to reduce the re-entry of deported individuals. The aforementioned measures are components of a broader plan that the government is implementing in order to preserve the rule of law, protect resources, and maintain order in the immigration system of South Africa.
