THE Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum (BMIACF) takes a firm stance against corruption.
The BMIACF has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing illicit activities.
This effort focuses on South Africa's immigration and border management systems.
This after the forum's quarterly meeting held on Monday, 23 June.
Launched on 25 March 2025, the forum serves as a vital platform for collaboration among law enforcement, civil society, government, and the business sector to address systemic corruption and illicit activities affecting immigration and borders.
Special Investigating Unit (SIU) spokesman Kaizer Kganyago said the forum reviewed progress on ongoing investigations and preventative strategies aimed at eradicating corruption in the sector.
The forum received a progress report on the fraudulent and corruption investigations related to the issuance of the following permits and visas:
- Permanent residence permits.
- Corporate visas.
- Business visas.
- Critical/exceptional skills work visas.
- Study visas.
- Retired persons' visas.
- Work visas.
- Citizenship by naturalisation.
The forum also discussed recommendations to revoke all irregularly issued visas and deport individuals found to have violated South African immigration laws.
"Progress feedback on the case of Mr Mpofu was noted, who is undergoing criminal prosecution for charges related to fraudulently acquiring visas. The forum also noted, with serious concern, the abuse of Traffic Register Numbers (TRNs) issued under the National Road Traffic Act (NRTA), 1996.
"Preliminary findings under SIU Proclamation 191 of 2024 revealed widespread irregularities in the issuance of TRNs, mainly involving undocumented immigrants in South Africa," said Kganyago.
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The forum has resolved to intensify investigations into the misuse of TRNs and crack down on fraud in this area.
An emerging risk identified during the meeting was the spread of foot and mouth disease, prompting a renewed focus on enhancing border controls to prevent the illegal movement of livestock and contaminated goods.
Participants also reviewed ongoing corruption prevention efforts at border posts.
One such initiative took place on 16 April 2025 at the Lebombo Border Post in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, aimed at encouraging whistleblowing and raising awareness around border corruption.
The campaign's theme was: "If you see something, say something."
Further anti-corruption initiatives are planned for the coming months, including comprehensive corruption risk assessments at various border posts.
Advocate Andy Mothibi, head of the SIU, stressed the importance of the forum's work as part of a broader, multi-agency approach to fighting corruption.
"This collaboration is vital to safeguarding South Africa's borders and maintaining the integrity of our immigration system," he said.
Border Management Authority Commissioner Mike Masiapato said: "Corruption at our borders undermines national security and economic stability. Through this forum, we are closing loopholes and holding perpetrators accountable."
