Scrap the warrant rule for illegal foreigners!

The Issue

Proposed Amendment to the Immigration Act

​​To: The Parliament of the Republic of South Africa

Grant police the authority to immediately arrest illegal foreigners and protect taxpayer money!

​We, the undersigned citizens, are deeply concerned about the current state of our immigration laws and their impact on our country. While our Constitution provides fundamental rights to all people, we believe it should not be used as a shield to protect lawlessness and illegal acts that harm our nation and its citizens.

​The current law, specifically Section 20, subsection 2 of the Immigration Act, is hindering our law enforcement and is costing taxpayers millions of rands. When an undocumented person is discovered, police cannot make an immediate arrest. This delay allows individuals to escape and undermines the rule of law. Furthermore, if an arrest is made without a warrant, the government becomes liable for costly civil claims for unlawful arrest, and it is the South African taxpayer who pays the price for this legal loophole.

​This situation is not just an inconvenience; it is an issue of justice, security, and financial integrity. We believe that the right to freedom should be balanced with the state’s responsibility to enforce its laws in a manner that is reasonable and justifiable for the safety and well-being of its citizens.

​We propose that you amend the Immigration Act to remove the warrant requirement and add a new clause that grants law enforcement the authority to immediately arrest and detain any person found to be in the country illegally. This action will streamline enforcement, save taxpayer money from costly lawsuits, and better protect our national interests.

​We urge you to pass this critical amendment for the benefit of all South Africans.. 

16

The Issue

Proposed Amendment to the Immigration Act

​​To: The Parliament of the Republic of South Africa

Grant police the authority to immediately arrest illegal foreigners and protect taxpayer money!

​We, the undersigned citizens, are deeply concerned about the current state of our immigration laws and their impact on our country. While our Constitution provides fundamental rights to all people, we believe it should not be used as a shield to protect lawlessness and illegal acts that harm our nation and its citizens.

​The current law, specifically Section 20, subsection 2 of the Immigration Act, is hindering our law enforcement and is costing taxpayers millions of rands. When an undocumented person is discovered, police cannot make an immediate arrest. This delay allows individuals to escape and undermines the rule of law. Furthermore, if an arrest is made without a warrant, the government becomes liable for costly civil claims for unlawful arrest, and it is the South African taxpayer who pays the price for this legal loophole.

​This situation is not just an inconvenience; it is an issue of justice, security, and financial integrity. We believe that the right to freedom should be balanced with the state’s responsibility to enforce its laws in a manner that is reasonable and justifiable for the safety and well-being of its citizens.

​We propose that you amend the Immigration Act to remove the warrant requirement and add a new clause that grants law enforcement the authority to immediately arrest and detain any person found to be in the country illegally. This action will streamline enforcement, save taxpayer money from costly lawsuits, and better protect our national interests.

​We urge you to pass this critical amendment for the benefit of all South Africans.. 

The Decision Makers

Cyril Ramaphosa
Cyril Ramaphosa
President - Republic of South Africa

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Petition created on 6 September 2025