An SIU investigation has revealed that visas and permits were allegedly sold for bribes totalling R16.3 million, implicating officials within the Department of Home Affairs. Picture Credit: Action SA
By Aisha Zardad
Johannesburg – The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) says South Africa’s immigration system was effectively turned into a “marketplace”, with visas and permits allegedly sold to the highest bidder.
Corrupt officials within the Department of Home Affairs are alleged to have received approximately R16.3 million in bribes as part of the scheme.
The revelations were made by acting SIU head Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho after the unit completed a wide-ranging investigation.
A number of foreign nationals have been drawn into the investigation, among them self-styled prophet Shepherd Bushiri, televangelist Timothy Omotoso and Nigerian musician 3GAR.
Acting SIU head Leonard Gaoretelelwe Lekgetho alleged that some of the individuals worked in collaboration with officials from the Department of Home Affairs to bypass immigration controls. Through the alleged abuse of internal systems and documentation procedures, permanent residency permits were reportedly secured without following lawful processes.
Forensic analysis of seized mobile phones uncovered exchanges between officials and applicants. Investigators claim the unlawful transactions were facilitated through e-wallet payments, typically ranging between R500 and R3,000, in exchange for the processing and approval of immigration documents.
In an apparent attempt to avoid detection, the alleged bribe payments were routed through bank accounts held by officials’ spouses rather than being transferred directly to the officials.
The probe further uncovered weaknesses within certain border management systems, which investigators say were exploited through corrupt activities.
The Special Investigating Unit launched its investigation in May 2024 after receiving tip-offs from a whistleblower alleging irregularities within the immigration process.
“The SIU received information that these foreign nationals collude with syndicates involving corrupt Home Affairs officials to secure permits without merit. Permits are issued upon application without properly assessing asylum claims,” Lekgetho said.
He added that payments were made using various methods, including e-wallet transfers linked to cellphone numbers not registered under RICA.
“Asylum seekers sent e-wallet payments to themselves and provided one-time pins to officials. In some cases, in-kind payments were made, such as covering private rental costs for officials. Dummy phones were used to conceal transactions and communication.
“Evidence further indicates that certain members of this group have acquired significant assets that are grossly disproportionate to their declared income. Some have developed private properties with extensive infrastructure.”
