South African government defends migration crackdown amid rising anti-foreigner sentiment
via The Namibian8 min read
The South African government is defending its strict migration policies and enforcement efforts as anti-foreigner sentiment and protests increase across the country. Since President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a five-point plan to address irregular immigration, 2,745 foreign nationals have been repatriated. The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration, chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development Mmamoloko Kubayi, provided an update on the government's strategy, which includes zero tolerance for immigration law violators, strengthened border security, anti-corruption measures within the immigration system, closing legal loopholes, and working with other African countries. The Border Management Authority has deployed advanced technologies like drones and body-worn cameras to intercept illegal crossings. Over 7,400 illegal immigrants were arrested by the South African Police Service in the past month, and more than 40,000 undocumented individuals have been arrested since January 1, 2026. Minister Kubayi addressed humanitarian crises in Durban, stating that South Africa does not have refugee camps and will not create them. Legal foreign nationals are advised to reintegrate into communities or opt for voluntary repatriation, without special protection beyond what ordinary South Africans receive. The government is also clamping down on corrupt officials and employers who flout labor laws, with arrests made in various sectors. The IMC strongly condemned xenophobic rh
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of the Republic of Namibia, delivered a statement on June 12, 2026, in Okahandja, at the 130th Commemoration of the Battle of Otjunda Sturmfeld and the execution of Ombara Kahimemua Nguvauva. The event honored Kahimemua Nguvauva.
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Must ReadThe defense in the Phala Phala robbery trial asserts that the State's case against the three accused is circumstantial, lacking direct evidence to place them at President Cyril Ramaphosa鈥檚 farm or link them to the stolen money. After 13 months, both the State and defense have closed their cases. The prosecution has until July 3 to file written arguments, with the defense given 15 days to respond before oral arguments in August. The defense contends that the State's evidence, including cellphone records, financial transactions, and witness testimony, does not directly prove the accused's involvement in the February 2020 burglary. Imanuwela David, Floriana Joseph, and Ndilinasho Joseph face charges including conspiracy to commit housebreaking and theft, with David also facing a money laundering charge. The State highlighted David's increased bank activity and luxury spending post-burglary, which he attributes to legitimate business dealings. The defense challenges the reliability of cellphone evidence, arguing it only indicates proximity, not specific location, and points to inconsistencies in witness testimonies, particularly from two transport witnesses who changed their statements and alleged police pressure. Despite these challenges, the National Prosecuting Authority maintains it has a compelling case, citing cellphone communication among the accused before and after the incident. The Modimolle Magistrate鈥檚 Court will determine if the evidence is sufficient to prove guilt