By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) with the assistance of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, on Friday conducted searches and seized evidence at Home Affairs offices in five provinces.
The SIU was granted a search warrant by the Special Tribunal, a judicial platform established to adjudicate on matters emanating from SIU investigations, on 10 May.
The searched offices and mirror imaging of a server took place at the head office of the Department of Home Affairs in the Pretoria CBD, at the Centurion office and at the Desmond Tutu Refugee Centre in Marabastad.
The other raids took place at the Refugee Reception Centres in Musina, Cape Town, Gqeberha and Durban.
SIU head Advocate Andy Mothibi said several measures have been implemented to stop the corruption.
“We would like to see the process redefined. We would like to see checks and balances in the process. We would like to see those who are involved in putting control measures in place so that we deter and stop this from happening again.
“Our view is there is almost blank tax to these officials, who are getting the applications and are able to process themselves and approve.”
Mothibi said the unit has managed to detect some of the loopholes in the system.
“We will make recommendations and I know that the department as well has done quite a lot in terms of closing those loopholes. We are here, firstly, to ensure that we investigate as mandated by the proclamation. Secondly, we hope that we will determine those areas where we can recommend for the department to close the gap.
Members of the SIU and the Hawks seized computers, electronic pieces of equipment, and documents that will assist with their ongoing investigation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised the SIU to investigate serious maladministration and improper conduct at Home Affairs through Proclamation 154 of 2024.
The proclamation empowers the SIU to probe serious maladministration relating to the issuance of permanent residence permits, corporate visas, business visas, critical or exceptional skills work visas, study visas, retired persons’ visas, work visas, and citizenship by naturalisation, contrary to the Immigration Act, 2002; the South African Citizenship Act, 1995; manuals, guidelines, circulars, practice notes or instructions applicable to Home Affairs; or manuals, policies, procedures, prescripts, instructions or practices of or applicable to the department.
The proclamation also authorises the SIU to investigate any irregular, unlawful, or improper conduct by officials or employees of Home Affairs or any other person or entity concerning the allegations being investigated.