The arrests followed a joint investigation by the Department of Home Affairs Counter Corruption Unit and the Hawks into a syndicate uncovered in 2022.
The syndicate allegedly exploited outdated manual processes through a method known as “photo swapping”.
Identity details belonging to legitimate SA citizens were allegedly used to produce passports carrying photographs of foreign nationals.
The Department of Home Affairs said biometric verification introduced through digital reforms had closed the loophole by linking applicants to identities throughout the application process, including when photographs were captured. “This case is a powerful example of why we are fundamentally reforming Home Affairs,” Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber said.
“For years, outdated manual processes created loopholes that criminal syndicates could exploit to fraudulently obtain SA passports.”
The Department said the same approach supported the Digital Partnership with banks, which was expanding access to Smart ID Cards through securely integrated digital systems.
Automating identity checks and reducing officials’ discretion would help remove opportunities for corruption, Home Affairs said. “Our reforms are not simply about making Home Affairs faster and more convenient,” Schreiber said.
“They are about fundamentally changing how the Department operates, so that fraud and corruption are prevented by design rather than only detected after the damage has been done.”
Since the beginning of SA’s seventh administration, 98 Home Affairs officials have been dismissed and 42 arrested during the Department’s anti-corruption drive.
Schreiber commended the Counter Corruption Unit and the Hawks for continuing investigations into corruption and identity fraud.
The Department said the case demonstrated the risks posed by manual systems and the importance of safeguarding SA’s identity and travel documents from criminal abuse.
–ChannelAfrica–
