A significant repatriation operation took place at OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday, 7 June 2026, as South African authorities and the Ghanaian High Commission successfully facilitated the departure of 340 Ghanaian nationals. The event highlighted a robust, coordinated effort between the two nations to manage migration flows in strict compliance with legal frameworks.
Processing and documentation details
The operation commenced when 331 Ghanaian nationals arrived at the airport, brought by the Ghanaian High Commission for repatriation. Immigration officials from the Border Management Authority (BMA) handled the extensive processing of these individuals .
The group included 117 people traveling on ordinary passports, 90 traveling on Emergency Travel Certificates issued by the Ghanaian High Commission in Pretoria, and 37 minor children in South Africa who also utilised Emergency Travel Certificates for their travel.
Managing asylum and immigration compliance
During the processing phase, BMA officials also handled 25 asylum seekers who had voluntarily submitted letters to withdraw their applications. As part of the standard verification process, 170 travellers were identified as having overstayed their permitted time in South Africa by 30 days or more. In accordance with Section 30 of the Immigration Act and Regulation 27(3)(c) of the Immigration Regulations, these individuals were officially declared undesirable.
Final departure and operational success
By the conclusion of the process, 341 passengers were cleared for departure. This total included the initial group of travelers as well as 10 deportees who were transferred from the Lindela Holding Facility by the Department of Home Affairs. While one traveler did not complete the check-in process, the remaining 340 individuals successfully boarded a chartered flight organised by the Government of Ghana through its High Commission in Pretoria.
Commendation from leadership
Commissioner Dr. Masiapato praised the Port Management Committee and all officials involved for their successful management of the operation. He emphasised that the event stands as a clear example of effective cooperation between the South African government and foreign missions.
Commissioner Masiapato further encouraged foreign missions to maintain close working relationships with relevant South African departments to ensure that future repatriation movements are facilitated in a smooth and lawful manner. He noted that such coordinated efforts are essential for effective migration management and for ensuring ongoing compliance with the country's immigration laws.