25 people intercepted for trying to enter SA illegally

JOHANNESBURG - The Border Management Authority (BMA) has intercepted 25 people trying to enter the country illegally.

The group was nabbed during a routine intelligence operation at the OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday, comprising 14 Bangladeshi nationals, six Pakistani nationals, four Ghanaians nationals and one Nigerian.

The group was found to be in contravention of the Immigration Act of South Africa and have been deported by immigration officials

"Thirteen Bangladeshis and three Pakistanis were found to be in possession of fake visitors’ visas whereas one Bangladeshi, a Nigerian, three Pakistanis, and four Ghanaians, failed to meet the relevant entry requirements on arrival.

"These travellers were intercepted on flights from Bangladesh, Pakistan, Ghana, and Nigeria and they were deported back in accordance with the International Civil Aviation Organization regulations," said BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi.

READ: BMA nab group of ‘tourists’ for fake visitor visas, lack of documentation

The BMA has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to criminal behaviour at all of the country's 72 ports of entry, said Mogotsi.

"Travellers are warned to avoid attempting to enter South Africa illegally as they will be caught by BMA officials," she added.