The Border Management Authority (BMA) has arrested 28 Bangladeshi illegal immigrants at the OR Tambo International Airport just after they landed from Dubai on Saturday. BMA confirmed that they are on high alert and monitoring movements in all ports of entry ahead of Wednesday's elections.

HIGH ALERT

Speaking on behalf of the BMA, Mmemme Mogotsi said immigration officials were conducting an intelligence driven operation on a flight from Dubai when they made the arrest. " A total of 28 Bangladeshis were intercepted on arrival at OR Tambo International Airport and during the operation, 27 Bangladeshis were found to be in possession of fraudulent visas and one Bangladeshi did not have a visa at all." Mogotsi explained that the travellers were in contravention of the South African Immigration Act by possessing fraudulent travel documents. She said the Bangladeshi nationals arrived in the country with visitors' visas and were denied entry. 

A JOB WELL DONE

BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato welcomed the arrest and highlighted the importance of collaborations with embassies and foreign missions in verifying visa legitimacy and encouraged improvements on detection systems. Masiapato said as the elections are close by, it is very important to seize illegal documents from illegal immigrants. "I commend the diligent efforts of our immigration officers in intercepting the Bangladesh nationals. 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," added Masiapato.