The Department of Home Affairs has arrested seven Kenyan nationals for illegally working while on tourist visas, highlighting ongoing efforts to enforce South Africa’s immigration laws.
The operation was carried out in Johannesburg on December 16, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, according to department spokesperson Carli Van Wyk.
Van Wyk explained that intelligence reports indicated that several Kenyan nationals had recently entered South Africa on tourist visas and were working at a centre processing “refugee” applications to the United States.
“This was despite earlier visa applications for Kenyan nationals to perform this work being lawfully declined by the Department,” she said.
During the operation, authorities confirmed that the seven individuals were working in violation of their visa conditions. They were arrested, issued deportation orders, and barred from returning to South Africa for five years.
“These individuals were found working in violation of their visa conditions and have been issued deportation orders, reinforcing our ongoing efforts to address abuses of the immigration system,” Van Wyk added.
She emphasised that the operation followed established procedures that have strengthened deportation efforts over the past 18 months. No US officials were involved, no diplomatic premises were targeted, and no members of the public or asylum seekers were harassed during the operation.
The department also highlighted the broader implications of the operation. Van Wyk noted that the involvement of foreign officials coordinating with undocumented workers raises questions about intent and diplomatic protocol.
“The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has initiated formal diplomatic engagements with both the United States and Kenya to resolve this matter,” she said.
Van Wyk concluded that the operation underscores Home Affairs’ commitment to enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour.
“No person or entity is above these laws. This operation demonstrates our dedication to addressing abuses of the immigration system while maintaining fairness, transparency, and accountability.”
The Star