Schreiber provided the clarification in a written Parliamentary reply to a question from Al Jama ah MP Imraan Ismail-Moosa regarding the Department of Home Affairs’ intervention following the group’s arrival on November 13.
According to Schreiber, only 23 of the Palestinian nationals had the required travel documentation and confirmed accommodation, as stipulated under SA’s Immigration Act. The remaining 130 travellers could not initially be processed for entry because they did not meet the legal requirements.
The situation prompted concerns at the airport, with immigration officials unable to finalise their admission upon arrival. Schreiber explained that he subsequently engaged with the Border Management Authority to resolve the matter, citing humanitarian considerations.
He said the decision was taken to admit the travellers on humanitarian grounds, with the understanding that they would be placed under the care of the humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers. This intervention allowed the group to enter the country lawfully while ensuring they received appropriate support.
–SABC/ChannelAfrica–
