South Africa has raised serious concerns following the arrival of US-deported criminals in neighbouring eSwatini, warning that their presence so close to home could pose a national security risk.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber sounded the alarm, describing the development as a βmatter of grave concernβ, especially given the 430-kilometre porous border the two countries share.
The deportees, who reportedly served time in the United States for various criminal offenses, have returned to eSwatini with no clear oversightβprompting fears that South Africaβs already strained security apparatus could face new challenges from transnational criminal elements.
In response, Pretoria is stepping up its border surveillance and ramping up intelligence-sharing efforts with regional partners. Schreiber confirmed that talks are underway with eSwatiniβs authorities to prevent potential cross-border infiltration or criminal activity.
Security analysts warn that, with South Africaβs soaring crime rates and ongoing issues around immigration enforcement, any additional external threat must be treated as urgent.
While the eSwatini government has not yet issued a formal response, diplomatic sources say the pressure is building for the kingdom to address regional concerns. South Africa is now pushing for immediate bilateral discussions to establish a coordinated action plan.
The controversy has reignited domestic debate about border control weaknesses, with critics arguing that South Africaβs immigration system remains vulnerable to exploitationβand demanding faster, firmer reforms.