South Africa Vows Tough Action on Illegal Immigration and Crime

Cachalia warned that hostility toward foreign nationals could discourage foreign investment and weaken efforts to create jobs and grow the economy.

South Africa's Acting Police Minister, Professor Firoz Cachalia, has reaffirmed the government's commitment to tackling illegal immigration while warning that violence and vigilantism directed at foreign nationals will not be tolerated.

Speaking during his department's Budget Vote debate in Parliament, Cachalia said the government recognizes public concerns about illegal immigration and supports stronger border controls and enforcement measures. At the same time, he stressed that addressing the issue must take place within the framework of the law. He emphasized that South Africa's sovereignty and immigration laws must be respected, but cautioned against taking matters into private hands through violent protests or attacks on foreign nationals.

According to the minister, such actions not only violate the law but also damage South Africa's international reputation and economic prospects.

Violence against foreigners threatens investment and regional cooperation

Cachalia warned that hostility toward foreign nationals could discourage foreign investment and weaken efforts to create jobs and grow the economy. He said maintaining stability and upholding the rule of law are essential for attracting businesses and encouraging economic development.

The minister also noted that cooperation with neighboring countries is crucial in addressing cross-border challenges such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and organized crime. Acts of violence against foreign nationals, he said, risk undermining these important regional partnerships. He reiterated that only the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Border Management Authority (BMA) have the legal authority to arrest individuals for immigration-related offenses.

Police will continue to take action against illegal immigration, he said, while also dealing firmly with those who engage in violence or criminal behavior during protests.

Accountability and police reform remain priorities

Addressing recent developments within SAPS, Cachalia said accountability remains a central element of the government's Police Reset Agenda. He referenced the recent suspension of several senior police officials following internal investigations and stated that police leadership remains committed to consequence management where misconduct is identified.

At the same time, the minister praised the vast majority of police officers who continue to serve communities professionally under difficult and often dangerous circumstances.

He paid tribute to officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, including Captain Louis Nel and Sergeant Mandla Khuzwayo of Crime Intelligence in KwaZulu-Natal. The officers were attacked by armed suspects while on duty in Verulam. Captain Nel died at the scene, while Sergeant Khuzwayo later succumbed to his injuries.

Looking ahead, Cachalia said the police budget is ultimately about improving safety and security for ordinary South Africans. He stressed that citizens, workers, students, and businesses all depend on effective policing to live, work, and invest with confidence.

The South African Police Service has been allocated R127.1 billion for the 2026/27 financial year, with funding set to increase to R135.8 billion by 2028/29 as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and public safety.