The Department of Home Affairs has launched a new nationwide campaign, Operation New Broom, aimed at removing illegal immigrants from public spaces using advanced biometric technology. Minister of Home Affairs Dr Leon Schreiber led the initiative’s first raid in District 6, where 25 people were arrested for occupying land earmarked for restitution.
Biometric technology is at the forefront
Operation New Broom is being rolled out continuously across urban centres in South Africa. Furthermore, the initiative relies on biometric verification to confirm the immigration status of suspects, drastically reducing the use of fraudulent documents and strengthening legal proceedings. According to the Department, this technology-driven approach ensures that due process is upheld.
“As with everything else we do, Operation New Broom is guided by our commitment to the rule of law,” said Schreiber.
“This commitment motivates us to do more to combat illegality, and to uphold due process and legal compliance in the process.”
A Warning to Illegal Immigrants
Moreover, the operation’s debut in District 6 holds symbolic weight. The 25 individuals detained reportedly lived on land designated for restitution to families displaced decades ago.
Additionally, Minister Schreiber issued a stern warning to those staying in South Africa without documentation: “Our message to anyone who is in the country illegally is clear: voluntarily deport yourself now, before we arrest and prohibit you from entering or obtaining legal status in South Africa in future.”
Digital Transformation Across Borders
In addition, Operation New Broom forms part of the broader digital transformation within the Department of Home Affairs. Schreiber also pointed to recent successes by the Border Management Authority as proof that technology integration is improving national immigration controls both at border posts and inland.
Do you believe biometric technology is the right solution to managing immigration and restoring public order?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
