More than 900 Mozambican nationals have departed South Africa through the Lebombo Port of Entry amid growing concerns over the safety of African immigrants following recent outbreaks of anti-immigrant violence.
According to the Border Management Authority (BMA), approximately 350 of those who left the country were transferred from the Lindela Holding Facility and transported by the Department of Home Affairs as part of its deportation programme. The remaining individuals travelled from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, with their repatriation facilitated by the Mozambican High Commission.
The departures follow a wave of fear among Mozambican nationals after the killing of two of their countrymen in Mossel Bay. The victims were reportedly murdered during anti-immigrant unrest and arson attacks in the Asla Park informal settlement, prompting scores of Mozambicans to flee the area and seek assistance to return home.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi said immigration and border officials processed all individuals departing through the port of entry, including those whose documentation and immigration status required verification.
Among those processed were 17 individuals who had entered South Africa legally but were found to have overstayed their authorised period of stay. Mogotsi said these cases were handled in accordance with the Immigration Act and relevant regulations.
The group also included 38 minors, who were processed with the support of the Department of Social Development to ensure compliance with child protection measures and cross-border movement requirements.
However, seven individuals were not permitted to leave South Africa following immigration screening and verification processes. According to the BMA, these cases involved people who did not meet the prescribed requirements for cross-border movement, individuals whose nationality or immigration status required further investigation, and minors who did not have the necessary supporting documentation.
The developments come as several African governments move to assist citizens seeking to leave South Africa amid concerns about xenophobic violence. The governments of Nigeria, Ghana and Malawi have all initiated repatriation efforts for nationals wishing to return home.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation as concerns mount over the safety and wellbeing of foreign nationals living in affected communities across the country.
