PRETORIA - Authorities have repatriated over 77,000 undocumented foreign nationals during ongoing immigration enforcement operations.
Between 1 April and 31 July 2026, 18,816 undocumented migrants were formally deported while just over 3,000 people remain at Lindela Repatriation Centre, awaiting deportation.
This was revealed on Friday by Deputy National Commissioner for Policing Tebello Mosikili, who gave an update on intensified crackdowns on illegal immigration.
READ | LIVE | NatJoints gives update on illegal immigration crackdown
Given the progress made in the repatriation of thousands of undocumented migrants, Mosikili said authorities have now begun demobilising the Repatriation Centre in Musina
"Just over 500 individuals remain at the centre and will be repatriated to their respective countries in the coming days. This marks a significant milestone in our coordinated operation, which has been carried out in an orderly, humane and lawful manner through the collaboration of all relevant government departments, foreign missions in South Africa and stakeholders.
Mosikili said government will continue enforcing immigration legislation while also ensuring that all enforcement measures remain lawful and humane.