28 foreign nationals caught with fraudulent documents at OR Tambo
During the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all.
With just two days before South Africa’s national and provincial elections, the Border Management Authority (BMA) is on high alert at all ports of entry to monitor movements.
On May 25, the BMA immigration officials conducted an intelligence-driven operation on a flight from Dubai.
A total of 28 Bangladeshis were intercepted on arrival at OR Tambo International Airport.
During the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all.
ALSO READ: Man busted for attempted human trafficking at OR Tambo Airport
The travellers were in contravention of the South African Immigration Act by possessing fraudulent travel documents.
The Bangladesh nationals arrived in the country with visitors’ visas and were denied entry.
The commissioner of the BMA, Dr Michael Masiapato commended the interception by the officials. He highlighted the importance of collaborations with embassies and foreign missions in verifying visa legitimacy and encouraged improvements in detection systems.
Masiapato also emphasised the need for continued efforts in confiscating illegal documents, especially at this critical time of elections.
“I commend the diligent efforts of our immigration officers in intercepting the Bangladesh nationals.
ALSO READ: Plane makes emergency landing at OR Tambo International Airport
“The BMA’s vigilance and commitment to maintaining the integrity of our immigration system is exemplary.
“This operation underscores the importance of our continuous efforts to secure our borders and ensure that all entrants comply with our legal requirements,” Masiapato said.
The BMA will continue to tighten its detection systems at the ports of entry.
An additional 400 BMA junior border guards are now entering the system following their pass-out parade held last week and more interceptions are expected across all ports of entry.
