South Africa raises alarm over United States deportees housed in eSwatini

THE South African government has raised “deep concern” following the arrival of convicted criminals, deported from the United States, in the neighbouring Kingdom of eSwatini.

- JONISAYI MAROMO

“South Africa is deeply concerned about the profile of these individuals and the potential adverse impact on South Africa's national security and immigration policy, given the geographical proximity between the two sisterly countries,” said Chrispin Phiri, spokesperson for Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola.

Phiri said South Africa has raised concerns with the Kingdom of eSwatini following confirmation by the acting spokesperson of the government, Thabile Mdluli, that the group of dangerous criminals of various nationalities landed in eSwatini.

The convicted criminals were transported from the US on a special flight, with the potential of more criminals of similar profiles scheduled to follow.

Their arrival was also followed by an announcement from the US’ Department of Homeland Security indicating that this group of individuals from several countries, and some of whom have been convicted of serious crimes, have been deported to eSwatini.