“No e-mail” link: https://removepaywalls.com/https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2026-02-23-unholy-alliance-siu-probe-reveals-multimillionrand-corruption-at-home-affairs/

An interim report released on Monday, 23 February, by the acting head of the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), Leonard Lekgetho, has revealed widespread corruption within the Department of Home Affairs. The report identifies a “nefarious syndicate” of officials who allegedly exploited their roles in visa processing and adjudication for personal profit, fundamentally violating their professional duties.

“The SIU can reveal that so far, we have uncovered that four officials, who earn less than R25,000 per month, have received a total of R16,313,327.00 in direct deposits. Evidence indicates that certain members of this group have acquired significant assets that are grossly disproportionate to their legal income,” said Lekgetho.