Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber has vowed to root out corruption within the Department of Home Affairs and the Border Management Authority (BMA). Speaking at the launch of the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum (BMIACF) in Pretoria, Schreiber warned that corrupt officials would face the full force of the law.

“Our message is clear – we apply the rule of law without fear or favour,” he said.

The Minister said the department is implementing systemic reforms to reduce opportunities for corruption by reducing human discretion. “We are embracing digital transformation to prevent, detect, and dismantle corrupt networks.”

Schreiber announced that paper-based visa systems are being replaced with Electronic Travel Authorisations supported by artificial intelligence and machine learning. Additionally, the green ID book is being phased out in favour of a smart ID card and digital ID system, which were also announced during the President’s State of the Nation Address.

“No more photo swapping. No more missing papers. You cannot bribe a computer or an electronic gate,” Schreiber added.

The Minister also said the department is finalising the appointment of a Deputy Director-General for Human Resources to strengthen accountability.

National Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Shamila Batohi, expressed concern about South Africa being used as a transit point for criminal activities and urged law enforcement to act swiftly. “We need institutions that serve the public, not criminals,” she said.

Advocate Andy Mothibi, head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), said the Forum was a strategic step in tackling fraud and corruption in border and immigration systems. He confirmed that BMIACF includes a steering committee and specialist subcommittees focusing on prevention, detection, investigation, and consequence management.

The department reaffirmed its commitment to integrity, transparency, and restoring public confidence in Home Affairs and the BMA.