Statement by Adrian Roos MP – DA Spokesperson on Home Affairs:
The Democratic Alliance (DA) welcomes the reduction in attempted illegal border crossings over the Easter season as Minister Schreiber’s no-nonsense program of action continues to deliver more secure borders.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) reported a 24% decline in illegal crossings over Easter along with increased efficiency at major border posts such as Lebombo, which saw a 21% increase in travellers processed through the border.
The DA’s approach is clear: make it easier for tourists and investors to enter South Africa legally, while making it far more difficult for illegal immigration to occur. Although years of neglect have left borders vulnerable, meaningful progress is now being made.
In 2024, Minister Schreiber introduced the use of drones in high-risk areas. This innovation significantly enhanced border monitoring and revealed the true scale of illegal crossings. A 215% increase in interceptions demonstrated a shift from reactive enforcement to proactive detection and deterrence.
In 2025, these efforts were expanded with increased drone deployment and the introduction of body cameras for border officials. These cameras, linked to a Digital Evidence Management System, ensure footage can be used in court, helping to expose corruption and dismantle criminal networks.
By 2026, these reforms have delivered tangible results. Fifty corrupt border officials have been dismissed, and arrests of those facilitating illegal immigration have increased by 22%. The combined effect of stricter enforcement and accountability is a clear deterrent as fewer individuals are attempting illegal crossings, while more are using official channels.
Progress is also evident internally, with deportations improving by 46% and a tenfold increase in enforcement operations within the country. This reflects a consistent, law-based approach to immigration enforcement.
The DA’s policy framework (https://shorturl.ad/wejkd) includes enforcing the Immigration Act, strengthening border security through technology, implementing a Digital ID system, supporting Operation New Broom, adequately resourcing the BMA, encouraging self-deportation, applying the First Safe Country Principle, and improving refugee appeal processes.
The DA remains committed to restoring law and order through secure borders and effective, lawful immigration enforcement.
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