Operation Vala Umgodi leads to surge in deportations of undocumented migrants

The Department of Home Affairs has credited Operation Vala Umgodi, a task force aimed at curbing illegal mining, with also playing a significant role in addressing the crisis of undocumented migrants in South Africa.

According to the latest data, more than 46,000 undocumented migrants were deported during the 2024/25 financial year, marking an 18% increase from the previous year. This figure represents the highest number of deportations carried out in at least five years.

Illegal Mining and Undocumented Migration

One of the major issues that South Africa has faced over the years is the rise of zama zamas—illegal miners who operate in abandoned and decommissioned mines. These miners, often undocumented migrants from Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho, have been linked to criminal syndicates and are frequently accused of contributing to violent crime, environmental destruction, and economic losses.

Operation Vala Umgodi

A recent high-profile crackdown occurred in Stilfontein, where hundreds of undocumented miners were arrested. This operation demonstrated the widespread scale of the problem and the urgent need for law enforcement interventions to tackle both illegal mining and border security issues.

Home Affairs Minister on Deportation Figures

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has welcomed the latest deportation figures, stating that they represent a major step forward in efforts to restore law and order concerning undocumented migration.

“The fact that Home Affairs now performs more than double the number of deportations conducted in a country like France, which has the highest rate of deportations in the European Union, sends a clear message to offenders that the days of impunity are over,” said Schreiber.

He also highlighted the role of digital transformation in strengthening border security. The automation of entry and exit systems at South Africa’s ports of entry aims to prevent illegal crossings and ensure that those who enter the country do so legally.

“This improved performance, coupled with our digital transformation reforms that will automate entry and exit to prevent people from entering the country illegally through our ports of entry, is contributing to enhanced national security and trade facilitation,” Schreiber added.

Challenges in Managing Migration and Border Security

While the increase in deportations has been celebrated by some, it has also sparked debate over the treatment of migrants and border policies.

South Africa has long been a destination for economic migrants from neighboring countries, many of whom come in search of better opportunities due to poverty and political instability in their home countries.

However, border control issues, weak enforcement, and corruption have made it difficult to regulate migration effectively. The rise in xenophobic tensions and public sentiment against illegal immigration has placed pressure on the government to take a tougher stance.

Critics argue that deportations alone are not a long-term solution, and that the underlying socio-economic causes of migration need to be addressed. Additionally, some human rights organizations have raised concerns about the conditions migrants face during deportation and the lack of legal avenues for them to regularize their stay.

The Role of Digital Transformation in Immigration Control

A key aspect of South Africa’s evolving immigration strategy is the introduction of digital systems that aim to improve efficiency and reduce corruption.

Some of the planned changes include:

• Automated biometric verification at ports of entry

• Enhanced border management systems to track entries and exits

• Stricter penalties for individuals and businesses that aid illegal immigration

These measures are expected to tighten border security while also streamlining legitimate migration processes, ensuring that individuals who qualify for legal residency or work permits can obtain them without bureaucratic delays.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Immigration Control in South Africa

The record-breaking deportations carried out in 2024/25 mark a significant policy shift for South Africa. While the government views Operation Vala Umgodi and increased deportations as a success, questions remain about the long-term strategy for managing migration effectively.

With thousands of migrants still seeking entry into the country and illegal mining operations continuing, the government will need to balance law enforcement efforts with socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of migration.

As digital border management systems come into effect, it remains to be seen whether these measures will significantly curb illegal immigration, or whether additional reforms will be necessary.

For now, Operation Vala Umgodi has set a precedent, demonstrating that South Africa is serious about tackling undocumented migration and illegal activities linked to it. However, the debate over immigration policy, deportations, and border control is far from over.