An Examination of the Efficacy of Border Control Measures to Curb Illegal Immigrants in South Africa

Illegal migration is a contemporary global challenge and a threat to human security. The South African government has been grappling with curbing unlawful migration since the dawn of the century. The crisis has been propelled by the opening of borders since the end of apartheid and the porous nature of the country’s borders. However, measures such as establishing border control management and installing border fences are hailed as attempts to curb the illegal migration crisis. This was conducted qualitatively. This study utilised securitisation theory to understand the plight of illegal migration. An extensive visit to primary and secondary data sources was conducted to understand what perpetuates the illicit crisis migration despite the measures in place to curb such. A thematic approach was adopted to analyse the reviewed data. Findings show that the measures to curb illicit migration are ineffective enough to put the last nail in the problem. The study findings further reveal issues such as a lack of coordination, corruption, and infrastructure, such as vehicles for patrol purposes, along the land borders. The study, therefore, recommends that the government use advanced technological equipment such as drones, erect electrical fences, and arrest and charge those who engage in corrupt activities.