Increased Deportations of Illegal Immigrants Mark Record High for 2024/25

Home Affairs Minister, Dr. Leon Schreiber, praised the efforts of the department and its partner agencies, noting that the record number of deportations is the highest in at least five years.

In the 2024/25 financial year, which concluded on March 31, 2025, the Department of Home Affairs reported a significant surge in the deportation of illegal immigrants, a direct result of enhanced collaboration between multiple government stakeholders and the implementation of new security measures. A total of 46,898 illegal immigrants were deported, representing an 18% increase compared to the previous year’s 39,672.

Home Affairs Minister, Dr. Leon Schreiber, praised the efforts of the department and its partner agencies, noting that the record number of deportations is the highest in at least five years. The increase in deportations is part of a broader strategy to ensure national security, safeguard the economy, and uphold the integrity of South Africa's immigration system.

The surge in deportations is the result of concerted efforts across various government agencies, including the Border Management Authority, South African Police Service (SAPS), and local law enforcement. The ongoing collaboration between these stakeholders is seen as a key factor in enhancing the effectiveness of enforcement operations. Dr. Schreiber specifically highlighted the impact of joint initiatives such as Operation Vala Umgodi, which focuses on the identification, arrest, and deportation of illegal immigrants from high-risk areas.

This increased efficiency in the deportation process underscores the government's commitment to law enforcement and security, reinforcing the importance of cooperation between different entities at the national and local levels. The Department of Home Affairs emphasized that these efforts are part of a larger national security strategy designed to protect South Africa from various threats, including illegal immigration, human trafficking, and organized crime.

One of the key elements contributing to the effectiveness of these operations is the recent upgrade to South Africa’s digital verification system. This overhaul, which was announced earlier this year, allows government agencies and businesses in both the public and private sectors to verify the identities of individuals using biometric features, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, linked to the National Population Register.

The new digital verification system is particularly significant in its role in bolstering the country’s security infrastructure. It enables authorities to quickly and efficiently identify individuals, both citizens and immigrants, ensuring that those who have entered the country illegally are detected and deported without delay. Additionally, the system provides a vital tool for combating fraud and misidentification across various sectors, including banking and social services, as it offers enhanced accuracy in confirming identities.

According to the Department of Home Affairs, the digital transformation reforms are expected to have a profound impact on South Africa’s immigration control and enforcement operations. One of the key upgrades includes an automated entry-and-exit system at the country’s ports of entry, which will streamline the immigration process and minimize opportunities for illegal entry. This automated system is designed to detect and prevent illegal immigration by accurately recording the movement of individuals entering and leaving the country.

The Home Affairs Ministry has also made strides in expanding public awareness about the consequences of illegal immigration, emphasizing the long-term benefits of maintaining a robust immigration system. The Minister stressed that these efforts were necessary not only to protect South Africa’s borders but also to ensure the integrity of the nation’s resources, including social services and public welfare programs.

The success of these enforcement operations comes at a time when the government is also addressing broader concerns about immigration policy, particularly regarding the balance between humanitarian efforts and maintaining national security. The rise in deportations has sparked debates within the public and among policymakers about the effectiveness of South Africa’s immigration policies and the human rights implications of such mass deportations. Critics argue that the deportation process needs to ensure due process and fairness, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Despite the challenges, the Department of Home Affairs remains committed to its mission of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of South Africa’s citizens. Moving forward, the department plans to continue its efforts in improving border management, enhancing collaboration with law enforcement agencies, and refining its digital systems to further strengthen the country’s ability to combat illegal immigration.

As the department’s initiatives continue to take shape, the government remains focused on finding a balanced approach to immigration enforcement, one that considers both security concerns and the rights of individuals. With the continued expansion of technological infrastructure and strategic partnerships, South Africa is positioning itself to better manage its immigration system while addressing the evolving challenges of the modern world.

In conclusion, the 2024/25 financial year’s record deportation numbers signal a clear shift toward more effective border management and a renewed commitment to upholding immigration laws. As the country moves forward, the Department of Home Affairs is determined to continue refining its approach, using both technological advancements and inter-agency cooperation to ensure the protection of South Africa’s sovereignty.