Acting Police Minister Cachalia Clarifies Immigration Enforcement
Who Can Arrest for Immigration Offences?
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia stressed that only the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Border Management Agency have the authority to detain people for immigration violations. This mirrors President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent statement that immigration enforcement is a state responsibility alone.
Rule of Law and Protests
Cachalia reminded listeners that while police must act against those in the country illegally, they also must protect citizens from violent protest actions—whether the protesters are locals or foreigners. He warned that breaking the law to enforce it undermines the very rule of law the country seeks to uphold.
Condemning Violence Against Foreigners
The minister condemned any violent attacks targeting people from other nations. He highlighted that such incidents damage South Africa’s reputation, deter foreign investment, and hinder regional cooperation against organized crime, including drug trafficking and human smuggling.
Police Reset Agenda and Accountability
Cachalia praised the suspension or dismissal of several senior SAPS officials, noting that holding leaders accountable is a core part of the Police Reset Agenda. Acting National Commissioner Puleng Dimpane’s recent actions align with SAPS internal investigations, and both he and the minister are committed to consequence management.
Recognizing Frontline Officers
He expressed appreciation for the majority of police officers who remain dedicated to their duties, especially those who have been killed or injured while serving the community.
Crime Trends and Policing Impact
Commenting on the latest crime statistics, Cachalia noted a sustained downward trend in major contact and property crimes over the past two years. He attributed this improvement to better‑targeted policing operations and ongoing community safety initiatives, though he acknowledged that overall crime and violence levels remain unacceptably high.
A Whole‑of‑Government Approach to Safety
The minister stressed that achieving lasting community safety requires cooperation across all three tiers of government—national, provincial, and local. Policing alone cannot deliver the safe environment needed for sustainable growth.
Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy
South Africa has adopted an Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy. In tandem, the ministry is developing a national and provincial patroller programme. The Civilian Secretariat for Police Service is drafting national norms and training curricula for patrollers, with provinces encouraged to provide stipends, equipment, and training—ideally supported by national co‑financing and technical assistance.
National Organised Crime Strategy
Cachalia announced that a comprehensive National Organised Crime Strategy will be presented to Cabinet later this year. The strategy aims to improve coordination and information sharing among government departments, the private sector, and civil society to tackle organized criminal networks more effectively.
Monitoring and Continuous Improvement
Multi‑disciplinary teams are already focusing on specific organized crime syndicates across the country. The ministry will closely monitor outcomes, assess impact, and incorporate lessons learned to refine interventions continually.
Conclusion
Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia’s message is clear: immigration enforcement belongs to the state, violent protests against foreigners are unacceptable, and lasting safety depends on accountable policing, community involvement, and coordinated government action. By strengthening border control, supporting frontline officers, and implementing strategic prevention programmes, South Africa aims to protect its sovereignty, uphold the rule of law, and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.
