The Home Affairs Department of South Africa takes active measures to prevent deported illegal miners from re-entering the country.
This involves rigorous patrolling of the borders.
Recently, the department provided an update to Parliament on its efforts to combat illegal mining in the Gauteng region.
Committee Oversight in Riverlea
The mineral resources and energy committee, as reported by EWN, conducted a visit to Riverlea in Johannesburg.
Their objective was to oversee and address the issue of illegal mining in this area.
Ensuring Deportees Stay Away
Albert Matsaung from Home Affairs emphasized the importance of ensuring that individuals who have been deported do not return.
Operations to achieve this goal are carried out along the borders, particularly in proximity to the Zimbabwean, Mozambican, and Lesotho borders, which see a significant number of deportations.
Deportations and Cross-Border Measures
In the preceding month, a considerable number of undocumented immigrants were deported to their respective countries of origin.
The strategy involves intensifying border surveillance, sharing information with neighboring countries, and enhancing collaboration among law enforcement agencies.
Collaboration with Neighboring Countries
South Africa’s Home Affairs Department is actively seeking to collaborate with neighboring nations to combat illegal mining and curb cross-border movement.
Local Impact of Illegal Mining
During their recent visit to Riverlea, Members of Parliament gained insights into the challenges faced by local communities due to illegal mining activities.
The cooperation between government departments in addressing this issue has drawn both praise for its efforts and criticism for perceived lack of substantial results.
Deportations and Law Enforcement Actions
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the Provincial Police spokesperson, confirmed that Limpopo police deported 1387 undocumented immigrants.
Additionally, they apprehended 50 individuals for various offenses, including illegal liquor sales, assault causing grievous bodily harm, harboring undocumented persons, and violations of immigration laws.
Cross-Border Operations
These enforcement actions were part of cross-border operations conducted from July 31 to August 2 in the Musina Policing Precinct and Beitbridge Border Post in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province.
In conclusion, South Africa’s Home Affairs Department remains committed to addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining and undocumented immigration, utilizing a multi-pronged approach that involves border security, information sharing, and inter-agency cooperation.