A South African woman allegedly claimed to be Malawian in an attempt to be repatriated alongside her Malawian partner, but immigration officials uncovered the deception before she could leave the country. The incident, which came to light on 13 July 2026, was confirmed by South African authorities, who said the woman did not have a passport and was not eligible to use the voluntary repatriation process.
South African Woman’s Repatriation Bid Stopped At Musina
Speaking about the incident, Home Affairs acting chief director Albert Matsaung said the woman arrived at the temporary repatriation site in Musina with her partner and claimed she was also Malawian.
According to the South African Department of Home Affairs, officials worked with Malawian authorities to verify her identity.
Matsaung said:
“We work with different authorities here who interviewed her. After the interview, Malawian authorities realised that the story does not add up.”
The woman was then handed over to South African officials, who established that she is a South African citizen. Authorities said she had hoped to accompany her partner through the voluntary repatriation programme.
It is not yet clear whether she will face any charges.
Home Affairs Warns Against Abusing Repatriation Process
Matsaung urged South Africans not to misuse the repatriation system, saying it exists for foreign nationals returning to their home countries voluntarily.
He said:
“People wishing to visit other countries must not abuse this process.”
He added:
“We are not trying to promote illegal immigration to other countries by our own citizens, so this process must not be abused.”
Matsaung also reminded South Africans wishing to travel to other African countries, including those visiting partners, that they must use the correct legal channels and possess the necessary travel documents.
Authorities Looking To Prevent Similar Cases
Matsaung said the woman’s actions were not permitted under South Africa’s Immigration Act. He added that immigration officials are working with the Department of Social Development to explore ways of preventing similar incidents in future.
The case has drawn attention to the safeguards used during voluntary repatriation exercises, with authorities stressing that every person’s identity and nationality is verified before they are allowed to travel.