IN a landmark ruling, two Mozambican citizens were on Thursday sent to prison without the possibility of a fine after being found guilty of contravening the Immigration Act.
The matter was finalised at the eSikhawini Magistrate’s Court after being initiated by inspectorate officers from the Richards Bay Department of Home Affairs (DHA) office.
Christinah Enesto Cubane and Rosi Arnondo Motaba were found guilty of contravening Section 49 (1) (a) of the Immigration Act and sentenced to two years behind bars without the option of a fine.
In sentencing, Magistrate Kunene remarked that, had it not been for the diligence of the Richards Bay DHA inspectorates and their close working relationship with SAPS on these cases, these individuals would be benefitting by being in South Africa and not contributing to the country’s tax base.
‘In weighing the interest of cost of detention to the taxpayer, I am of the opinion that a strong message should be sent to the public that, as much as we are all Africans, if you want to visit South
Africa from another African country, or from anywhere in the world, you should abide by the laws of South Africa and ensure you have the necessary valid visa.’
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