South Africa’s government has debunked a viral social media notice claiming that citizens would be financially rewarded for reporting undocumented foreign nationals.
The country’s Department of Home Affairs rejected the claim in a statement shared on its official X account on Sunday, describing the widely circulated notice as false.
“The notice currently circulating is fraudulent and did not originate from the Department of Home Affairs. Neither the Department nor the Minister of Home Affairs offers monetary rewards to members of the public for reporting undocumented foreign nationals,” the statement read.
The department urged members of the public to confirm information through its official communication platforms before circulating it in order to prevent the spread of false information.
“We encourage the public to verify information through official channels before sharing it. Let us all play our part in promoting accurate information, responsible engagement, and respect for the rule of law,” it said.
READ ALSO: South Africa Repatriates 2,745 Foreigners In One Week Amid Immigration Crackdown
The clarification comes as South Africa continues to experience xenophobic unrest, with foreign nationals from several African countries, particularly Nigerians, reportedly being targeted in violent attacks.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has begun arrangements to evacuate its citizens from South Africa.
Hundreds of Nigerians have registered to return home, citing the loss of their homes and sources of livelihood.
While warning Pretoria over the situation, the Federal Government has continued to pursue a diplomatic approach to resolving the crisis.