SIU exposes Home Affairs fingerprint photo fraud

SIU Acting Head Leonard Lekgetho reveals major fraud at Home Affairs. Lekgetho says corrupt officials collude with foreign nationals, illegally accessing offices to swap photos and fraudulently use innocent South Africans’ fingerprints. In response, the SIU has proposed systemic recommendations to bolster security. Lekgetho acknowledged that the department is already implementing biometric controls on passport photographs. But has stressed the urgent need to strengthen physical access controls at Home Affairs facilities, ensuring every person entering can be positively identified to prevent internal collusion. The Special Investigating Unit was today briefing the media, providing an update on its ongoing investigation into allegations of serious maladministration within the Home Affairs Department. The investigation focused on document fraud, visa and work-permit manipulation, and facilitation networks enabling unauthorized entry into South Africa.