Bangladesh nationals arrested for illegally entering South Africa

The Bangladeshis were arrested in the country on a flight from Dubai.

The Agency says it has heightened operations at all South Africa's borders and ports of entry as part of additional measures during the elections period. 

The BMA says 27 were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas, while one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all. 

Spokesperson for the agency, Mmemme Mogotsi, says 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 Border Management Authority, Dr Michael Masiapato, has commended the interception by the BMA Immigration officials and highlighted the importance of collaborations with embassies and foreign missions in verifying visa legitimacy and encouraged improvements in detection systems.  

Commissioner Masiapato also emphasised the need for continued efforts to confiscate illegal documents, especially at this critical time of elections.

"I commend the diligent efforts of our immigration officers in intercepting the Bangladesh nationals. 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."

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