The SIU has identified 15 religious leaders in an investigation into alleged irregular immigration processes, while Home Affairs says investigations are continuing and further details cannot yet be disclosed.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber says 15 religious leaders, including pastors and prophets, have been identified by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) for investigation over allegations that they obtained immigration benefits through irregular, fraudulent and unlawful processes.
Schreiber said 10 investigations had been concluded, with eight matters formally referred to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for consideration of prosecution.
Two cases had been closed after all investigative steps were completed and the matters were satisfactorily resolved, while five investigations remained ongoing, he said.
This comes after African Transformation Movement (ATM) Member of Parliament Thandiswa Marawu asked the minister about the SIU’s findings that certain foreign religious leaders and pastors had allegedly received assistance from officials within the department to obtain visas, permanent residence permits and other immigration benefits through fraudulent means.
