Cape Town – Twenty-eight Bangladeshi nationals were intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport by the Border Management Authority (BMA) during an intelligence-driven operation on a flight from Dubai on Saturday.
Of the 28, 27 had fraudulent visas and one had no visa, violating South African immigration laws.
“During the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all.
[BREAKING NEWS]
BMA IMMIGRATION OFFICIALS INTERCEPT 28 BANGLADESH NATIONALS AT ORTIA
With just two days before South Africa’s national and provincial elections, @TheBMA_SA is on high alert at all ports of entry to monitor movements. On Saturday evening, 25 May 2024, the BMA… pic.twitter.com/RXNGP8yNxS
— The Border Management Authority SA (@TheBMA_SA) May 27, 2024
“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 BMA said.
This interception comes as the BMA remains on high alert at all entry points ahead of national elections.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato praised the immigration officials’ efforts and emphasized the importance of verifying visa legitimacy and maintaining border security.
“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,” Masiapato said.
The BMA is enhancing its detection systems, with 400 new junior border guards joining the force, and expects more interceptions across all ports of entry.
“400 More 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,” it said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
