The South African government has expressed serious concern following the arrival of convicted criminals deported from the United States to the nearby Kingdom of eSwatini.
Officials highlighted the potential risks this poses to national security and immigration policy, especially given how closely the two countries are linked by geography and movement. The individuals in question were described as highly dangerous and were flown in from the US on a special flight, with indications that more such deportations could follow.
The group includes individuals convicted of severe crimes such as child rape, murder, and gang-related activities. They are originally from countries like Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen, and Cuba—nations reportedly unwilling to accept their return.
The U.S. authorities had announced their intention to work with eSwatini and an international migration organization to facilitate the transit of these deportees to their countries of origin. However, South African officials remain skeptical, warning that some of these men may not be received by their home nations and could potentially remain in the region, possibly even crossing into South Africa.
Meanwhile, a well-known human rights lawyer in eSwatini has taken legal steps to gain access to the detainees. He was denied a visit by prison officials who cited technical preparations as the reason. He argued that denying the men access to legal representation is unconstitutional and unlawful.
The issue has sparked public outrage in eSwatini, with some citizens feeling betrayed by their government for agreeing to receive the deportees without wider public consultation. Critics fear this could open the door to further similar agreements, raising anxiety about national sovereignty and safety.
One local editor expressed that the decision felt like an invasion and accused the leadership of acting in secrecy. There’s widespread worry that this might only be the beginning of more transfers, and that such actions could destabilize the region if not managed transparently.
Though the current plan reportedly limits the stay of these individuals in eSwatini to one year, many believe the long-term consequences have yet to be fully considered—especially in a region already grappling with complex migration and security challenges.