Department of Home Affairs dismisses five more officials for corruption and misconduct
Home Affairs' ongoing crackdown sees 38 crooked officials dismissed in just one year, with five more removed this week.
Image: File
The Department of Home Affairs has intensified its fight against corruption and misconduct within its ranks, announcing the immediate dismissal of five more officials this week.
This brings the total number of officials dismissed for offences ranging from fraud to sexual assault to 38 over the past 12 months.
The dismissals are a clear indication of the department's commitment to rooting out criminal elements. This significant progress follows a recent crackdown on a passport syndicate in Durban, which led to the arrest of two officials and three members of the public.
"In just 12 months, we have already rid Home Affairs of 38 crooked and delinquent officials," said Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. Leon Schreiber.
He issued a stern warning to those engaged in illicit activities, emphasising: "I repeat my warning to anyone involved in corruption: the days of defrauding this Department, or committing acts of sexual harassment or abuse while relying on long drawn-out disciplinary processes, are over."
Of the 38 officials dismissed, eight have already been convicted and sentenced to prison terms ranging from four to 18 years, while criminal prosecution for another 19 is currently under way.
These results underscore the growing success of Home Affairs in dismantling criminal syndicates both within and outside the department.
Minister Schreiber extended his gratitude to the dedicated officials who are instrumental in this clean-up operation.
"I would like to thank the diligent officials, including those involved in accelerating disciplinary processes, who are playing a critical role in our work to clean up Home Affairs," he said.
He further added, "Committed officials like these are the future of Home Affairs, as we continue to work together as #TeamHomeAffairs to clean out the corrupt elements that represent the past.”
The Department of Home Affairs remains resolute in its efforts to ensure integrity and accountability within its operations, sending a strong message that criminal behavior will not be tolerated.
IOL News