PRETORIA — In a decisive update regarding the irregular migration strategy, the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration has escalated national operations under a comprehensive five-point plan. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi spearheaded the briefing, detailing advancements in border security, deportations, and coordinated law enforcement efforts while strictly prohibiting unauthorized civilian policing.
Emphasizing that the nation operates strictly under the rule of law, Kubayi reminded the public that the state holds the exclusive mandate to execute law enforcement. She expressed deep concern over a disturbing trend of civilians taking the law into their own hands by conducting independent identity checks and immigration raids. The Minister categorically declared such vigilante actions illegal, demanding an immediate end to these unauthorized interventions.
While the public is barred from acting as immigration officers, authorities continue to encourage community members to report suspected criminal activities to the proper channels. Addressing widespread legal misconceptions, Kubayi clarified the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act (CPA) of 1977. She noted that while the legislation permits citizen’s arrests in specific scenarios, it absolutely does not sanction intimidation, victimization, or physical violence.
“When an arrest is made, the individual must be immediately handed over to the police,” Kubayi instructed, stressing that suspects must never be assaulted or harassed. She reiterated that the CPA must be applied strictly within legal boundaries, as any deviation constitutes a criminal offense.
Shifting to the country’s international standing, the Justice Minister forcefully debunked the persistent narrative that South Africa is inherently xenophobic or unwelcoming to foreign nationals. She highlighted the nation’s historical legacy of hosting diverse communities from across the globe and reaffirmed a steadfast commitment to the African Union Agenda 2063, a continental framework dedicated to promoting an integrated and prosperous Africa.