South Africa July 2006 |
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| Home Affairs Statement On Arrest of Foreigners, (DHA, 2006-07-14):-In a bid to address the issue of xenophobia and crime in the country, Home Affairs National Immigration Branch (NIB) together with stakeholders such as the South African Police Service (SAPS), Departments of Labour, Social Services and Traffic this week embarked on a joint venture which managed to capture 81 illegal immigrants. They are from eight countries. In the process, the officers from different departments conducted surveillance on the areas and addresses identified by SAPS and George NIB. The team checked 450 documents inclusive of RSA ID, foreign passports and asylum seekers permits. Amongst others, a Malawian national was arrested with suspected stolen property, which included a laptop and digital camera. This case was referred to SAPS for further investigation. The Department of Labour led the Home Affairs immigration officers to the construction sites where rights in terms of occupational health and safety act were violated. Twenty-seven persons were arrested at the respective building sites and taken to the operation centre to determine their status in the Republic of South Africa. The arrested persons were released from Plattenberg Bay SAPS and transferred to Kwanokuthula Community Centre where they were documented and interviewed to determine their status in the Republic. The adjudication process for the individuals who were in possession of asylum seeker permits was also handled. Of the 81 arrested 57 asylum seekers from 7 countries namely Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Congo were interviewed. Thorough processes were followed in accordance with the standard operating procedures whereby the applications for asylum seekers were processed. These process included interviews, questionnaires, fingerprints and the completion of necessary documents to facilitate speedy and successful deportation. A total number of 81 foreigners were finally transferred to the respective police stations. Home Affairs is proud of the achievements made through this joint venture which includes the positive branding of NIB within southern Cape, advocacy of immigration and refugee legislation within the community, identification of illegal foreigners hotspots and enhancing community participation within law enforcement community. | |
South African Migration Project (SAMP) - Queen's University - http://www.queensu.ca/samp |