01 Oct Deadly Stampede at Home Affairs Pretoria Office
The tragic stampede at the Home Affairs office in Marabastad, Pretoria, where one person died and over 20 were injured, has once again highlighted the dire situation faced by undocumented migrants in South Africa. Marabastad Home Affairs is one of five refugee reception offices in the country, it is also the most corrupt of these five.
The stampede occurred as a large crowd of foreign nationals gathered in the hopes of renewing or reapplying for asylum or refugee documentation, a process riddled with inefficiencies and corruption.
This event is not an isolated incident but part of a broader systemic issue affecting thousands of migrants. Many find themselves living as undocumented individuals due to delays, long waiting periods, and the disarray that plagues the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). For these migrants, the process of securing legal documentation can stretch for years, during which they remain vulnerable to exploitation and are often forced to endure prison-like conditions just to have their paperwork processed.
A System Under Pressure
Migrants queuing outside the Marabastad office describe a chaotic environment where people start lining up as early as 5 a.m., often without receiving assistance. The desperation to secure a place in line can quickly escalate into a dangerous situation, as evidenced by the recent stampede. Many asylum seekers report feeling helpless, often waiting months or even years without any meaningful progress on their cases. During this time, they live in constant fear of being deported, detained, or further marginalised.
One asylum seeker, who witnessed the stampede, shared his experience of spending years in these queues. He described how the disorder begins as soon as officials arrive, with people pushing and shoving out of desperation. “Once you’re in, you can’t leave, even for a bathroom break, because you lose your spot,” he said, adding that many spend the night in these conditions, hoping for an opening to have their cases heard.
The situation is exacerbated by corruption within the system. Some migrants have alleged that officials demand bribes in exchange for quicker processing, forcing already desperate individuals into paying just to move forward. This is further compounded by a language barrier, as many officials are unable to effectively communicate with the migrants they are tasked with assisting, making the entire process even more arduous.
The Cost of Living Undocumented
For those living in South Africa without proper documentation, the costs, both personal and financial, are enormous. Being undocumented can affect every aspect of life, from finding employment to accessing basic services. Without documentation, migrants are often unable to open bank accounts, secure housing, or even move freely within the country. The impact on mental health is significant, with many feeling trapped in a system that seems designed to keep them out.
Despite these challenges, the government’s response has been slow. The African Diaspora Forum (ADF) has called for immediate reform, urging the South African authorities to address not only the causes of the stampede but also the broader systemic issues affecting refugee and asylum centres across the country. The Marabastad office, one of only five in South Africa that deal with refugees, is notorious for overcrowding, long queues, and inadequate facilities, creating an environment of desperation for those seeking legal status.
Image: The Africa Daily Post
How June Luna Immigration Attorneys Can Help
At June Luna Immigration Attorneys, we understand the complexities and frustrations associated with the South African immigration system. Our team is committed to providing legal assistance to migrants facing the challenges of obtaining or renewing documentation. Whether you are dealing with delays, language barriers, or corruption, we are here to help navigate the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
We offer a range of services, including visa renewals and appeals. Our goal is to alleviate the burden on migrants and provide them with the legal support they need to secure their status in South Africa. With our deep understanding of the legal framework and years of experience in immigration law, we can intervene on your behalf to prevent further delays, ensure that your case is treated fairly, and work towards a resolution that allows you to live and work in South Africa legally.
At June Luna Immigration Attorneys, we stand ready to assist those caught in the system and advocate for meaningful change. If you or someone you know is facing immigration challenges, contact us today for expert legal support.