Cross-border migrants: Authorities on high alert

THE Department of Home Affairs says no cross-border migrants have volunteered for repatriation following Monday's 'March and March Movement' protest, despite expectations that some would come forward.

- Koketšo Sekhwela

Provincial manager Albert Matsaung said the department anticipated requests from migrants wanting to return to their home countries voluntarily after the demonstration but had received none to date. "We thought that cross-border migrants who wanted to leave would get in touch with us because of the march, but we do not have any volunteers yet," he said.

He added that Home Affairs was not actively encouraging voluntary repatriation because it currently lacks funding for such a programme. He added the department would, however, assist anyone who presented themselves for help. "Should they present themselves, we would not have any other option but to find means to help repatriate them," he said.