South Africa- The Department of Home Affairs and the South African Police Services, SAPS) are conducting a joint operation throughout the country where they are arresting undocumented foreigners.

During this operation, the teams raided shops, business premises and homes in high-density residential areas, targeting foreign nationals living illegally in the country.

Those found without proper documentation are being arrested, jailed, and subsequently deported to their countries of origin.

Thus far, hundreds of Zimbabweans have been impacted by this crackdown.

In response, the Zanu PF government has announced that it is preparing to receive thousands of deportees.

Public Service Deputy Minister Mercy Dinha informed Parliament last week that the government, in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has laid the groundwork for the return of these migrants.

“The Government of Zimbabwe, working with the IOM, has put in place mechanisms to manage the return of Zimbabwe Exemption Permit non-holders from South Africa. Inter-ministerial committees have been established and will be activated to handle the expected influx,” Dinha said.

She further stated that the government is finalising renovations at the Beitbridge and Plumtree reception and support centres, which will accommodate returnees before reintegrating them into their communities.

“Our capacity to manage the return of citizens is proven, as evidenced by our successful handling of hundreds of thousands of returning citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Dinha added.