Gaborone: The National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS) has commenced a targeted verification process for all foreign nationals currently gathered at the Diakonia Refugee Centre. The operation, which began on Thursday, is being conducted by an integrated team comprising the Departments of Home Affairs, Social Development, Transport, and provincial law enforcement authorities.
According to South African Government News Agency, the verification process follows engagements between the Southern African Refugee Forum, representing the foreign nationals at the centre, and senior NATJOINTS officials. These officials are represented by the Department of Home Affairs and law enforcement authorities in KwaZulu-Natal. Approximately 200 foreign nationals have sought refuge at the centre, reportedly fearing for their safety due to threats allegedly posed by anti-illegal immigrant groups in the areas where they reside.
NATJOINTS, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, aims to verify the status of all individuals at the centre to determine their legal status in South Africa. The process is intended to establish the legal status of those gathered at the centre and ensure that individuals lawfully residing in the country receive protection, while undocumented foreign nationals are processed in accordance with immigration legislation.
Provincial SAPS spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda stated that the verification process would be conducted by the integrated NATJOINTS team to address all issues associated with the illegal occupation of the centre. He noted that individuals found to be in the country illegally would be processed for return to their countries of origin.
Meanwhile, SAPS in eThekwini is investigating allegations of assault involving foreign nationals, as well as cases relating to intimidation, malicious damage to property, and the closure of businesses. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Phumelela Makoba assured that all reported cases would be investigated.
The integrated team has assured the public that the situation will be resolved urgently and reiterated that illegal immigration remains an area of ongoing government attention. SAPS, through Operation Shanela and other crime prevention initiatives, continues to address illegal immigration and related criminal activity across the country.
Since 1 January 2026, SAPS has arrested 29,731 illegal foreign nationals during high-density operations conducted nationwide. In the previous financial year, 76,588 illegal foreign nationals were arrested, while the Department of Home Affairs deported 59,814 undocumented foreign nationals. Authorities stated that these intelligence-driven operations are conducted in collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs and other law enforcement agencies to ensure compliance with South African laws.
The South African government has maintained its stance on immigration issues, emphasizing a rules-based approach anchored in the Constitution and the Rule of Law. This approach balances national security with human rights obligations, ensuring dignity and fairness for all. Illegal immigration places pressure on public services and social stability, and therefore must be addressed through lawful, orderly, and credible state processes. South Africa is modernizing its immigration system to enhance security, efficiency, and responsiveness, with ongoing legal and policy reforms strengthening governance.
NATJOINTS condemned violence and acts of intimidation against foreign nationals, stating that such actions do not reflect the values of South Africans or government policy. Criminal acts disguised as activism will not be tolerated, and lawlessness will face consequences.