Western Cape successfully concludes voluntary repatriation of foreign nationals

The Western Cape Government, together with municipalities, national government departments, humanitarian organisations, faith-based partners and law enforcement agencies, has successfully concluded the coordinated humanitarian support operation that assisted foreign nationals who voluntarily elected to return to their countries of origin.

All individuals who presented at municipal facilities and the Department of Home Affairs’ Epping offices in Cape Town have departed following extensive verification, registration and logistical planning undertaken by the department and supporting partners.

Dozens of buses were procured for this purpose.

Premier Alan Winde thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the operation.

"This operation demonstrated what can be achieved when all spheres of government, humanitarian organisations, religious institutions, transport providers and local communities work together towards a common humanitarian objective. We are deeply grateful to every individual and organisation that played a role in ensuring a safe, dignified and orderly process. I also want to thank our mediators who worked hard to defuse tensions. You played an important part in ensuring unrest did not erupt in our province. I am also deeply grateful for the engagements our International Relations Directorate initiated with affected foreign missions. "

The Premier also expressed appreciation to municipalities that made facilities available, humanitarian organisations that provided food, water and essential relief items, and operational teams who worked long hours to support the intervention.

Temporary facilities established to support the operation have now been demobilised and normal operations are resuming.

The Western Cape Government wishes to make it clear that no further transport logistics will be undertaken by municipalities for the purposes of repatriating foreign nationals.

Reports of free transport services after yesterday are incorrect.

Foreign nationals requiring assistance are encouraged to engage directly with their respective embassies or consulates and to utilise normal immigration processes administered by the Department of Home Affairs.

The Western Cape Government also acknowledges the inconvenience experienced by businesses and communities surrounding temporary support facilities and thanks them for their patience and cooperation throughout the intervention.

While the transport phase of the operation has now concluded, government departments and municipalities will continue to monitor the situation and address any further humanitarian, safety, or operational concerns through normal service delivery channels.