R80 million spent on deporting illegal immigrants, says Home Affairs Minister
Zuko Komisa
The Department of Home Affairs spent nearly R80 million on the deportation of undocumented immigrants during the 2024/2025 financial year, it has been disclosed.
The figure was revealed by Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber in a written response to a parliamentary question posed by Patriotic Alliance Member of Parliament, Millicent Mothapa.
According to the minister, the substantial sum was allocated to cover the costs associated with the detention and deportation of individuals, as well as broader border enforcement initiatives. A significant portion of the expenditure was channelled towards the Lindela Repatriation Centre, which plays a central role in the country’s deportation processes.
Minister Schreiber emphasised that the spending underscores the government’s firm commitment to upholding and enforcing the nation’s immigration laws. The disclosure, however, has ignited public debate regarding the financial sustainability and overall efficacy of the current deportation strategy.
The data further revealed that over 46,000 individuals were deported during this period, indicating a notable intensification of efforts to address the issue of illegal immigration across the country.
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