Operation New Broom sweeps clean for Home Affairs
At its heart, Operation New Broom at Home Affairs is a technology-driven initiative, insists Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber. However, whether you consider it an old-school issue, illegal immigrants in South Africa all face the same fate. Arrest, conviction and deportation and prohibition from reentering the country.
Launched last week, the technology powering Operation New Broom is biometric data. Through digital ID photos and fingerprints, biometric data will verify any residents' immigration status, thereby eliminating the risk of fraudulent documents (like the old green mamba ID booklet). Operation New Broom is yet another example of Dr. Leon Schreiber making his mark in office at such a young age. Image: File
Moreover, the first campaign of Operation New Broom has already taken place in Cape Town's District 6, before becoming a nationwide operation. Operation New Broom saw the arrest of 25 suspects for occupying land meant for victims of forced removals. Home Affairs Minister Dr. Schreiber says Operation New Broom tackles an old-time issue with the latest technology.
'As with everything we do, Operation New Broom is guided by our commitment to the rule of law. It is this commitment that both motivates us to do more to combat illegality, and to uphold due process and legal compliance. The benefits of our commitment to digital transformation are being felt across all areas of Home Affairs' mandate, including through the strides made by the Border Management Authority (BMA),' Schreiber said Operation New Broom will be ramped-up to run countrywide. Image: File
Earlier in the year, the BMA unveiled a new range of surveillance technology to enhance its efforts. These included 40 body-worn cameras and a set of state-of-the-art drones to monitor border operations. The cameras allow operators in control rooms to observer live footage from all BMA officers.
Furthermore, the minister encouraged anyone living illegally in the country to deport themselves. 'Voluntarily deport yourself now, before we arrest and prohibit you from reentering or obtaining legal status in South Africa in the future,' said Schreiber. There was no word on where Operation New Broom will sweep up next, but illegal immigrants have been warned. They will face no mercy from the authorities …
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