SA defends immigration enforcement following US claims

South Africa has reaffirmed its right to enforce its immigration laws while confirming that diplomatic channels have been opened with the United States following allegations involving the handling of personal information of US officials.

In a statement issued on 18 December 2025, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation said the recent deportation of seven Kenyan nationals by the Department of Home Affairs was lawful and conducted in full compliance with South African immigration legislation. The individuals were found to be working in the country without valid work permits.

The government said the enforcement action was a routine application of the law and emphasised that South Africa would not compromise its sovereignty or the rule of law. Officials stressed that immigration enforcement applies equally to all foreign nationals who do not meet legal requirements for residence or employment in the country.

At the same time, the ministry addressed allegations made by the United States regarding the detention and treatment of US officials in South Africa, as well as claims that personal information belonging to American officials had been made public.

South Africa rejected any suggestion that the state was involved in the release of private information. The ministry said the allegation was unsubstantiated and reiterated that the country treats data protection and information security with seriousness, guided by strict legal and diplomatic protocols.

Despite rejecting the accusation, the government said it remains committed to transparent and principled diplomacy. It confirmed that official diplomatic channels have been opened with the United States government to seek clarity on the matter and to ensure that bilateral relations continue to be based on mutual respect and factual engagement.

The response follows a strongly worded media note issued by the US Department of State on the same day. In the statement, the United States condemned what it described as the detention of US officials who were allegedly in South Africa to provide humanitarian support to Afrikaners.

The statement further claimed that the public release of passport information belonging to American officials amounted to harassment and intimidation. According to the US government, the disclosure of personal identifying information placed its officials at risk and was unacceptable.

The United States said it would not tolerate actions that endanger its officials or citizens who are operating legally and peacefully abroad. It warned that failure by South Africa to hold those responsible accountable could result in severe consequences.

The South African government did not comment directly on the claim that US officials were detained, but maintained that all engagements with foreign governments are handled within established diplomatic frameworks. It said allegations of misconduct should be addressed through appropriate state-to-state communication rather than public statements.

The ministry emphasised that South Africa values its bilateral relationship with the United States and remains committed to resolving disputes through dialogue. Officials said diplomatic engagement is the appropriate mechanism to clarify facts, address concerns and prevent misunderstandings that could affect cooperation between the two countries.

The Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation added that South Africa continues to uphold international norms while safeguarding its national interests, including the enforcement of domestic laws and the protection of its sovereignty.

Further discussions between South African and US officials are expected as both governments seek to address the allegations and maintain stable diplomatic relations.