SIU bombshell: R16 million visa bribes, fake permits and a ‘marketplace’ at Home Affairs exposed

South Africa’s immigration system has been systematically abused and commercialised, according to explosive interim findings released by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU). The anti-corruption body revealed that visas and residence permits were allegedly sold to the highest bidder, with some transactions going for as little as R500.

The investigation, authorised by Cyril Ramaphosa under Proclamation 154 of 2024, has uncovered what investigators describe as a “nefarious syndicate” operating inside the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).

The findings suggest that for years, South Africa’s borders were effectively “auctioned off”, one fraudulent permit at a time.

R16.3 Million Paid to Four Officials

At the centre of the scandal are four Home Affairs officials earning less than R25,000 per month. Despite their modest salaries, the SIU says they collectively received R16.3 million in direct deposits.

Acting SIU head Leonard Lekgetho said financial analysis revealed:

• Massive unexplained deposits
• Luxury properties purchased outright in cash
• Large-scale private construction projects
• Funds funnelled through spouses’ accounts

In one case, R3,000 was deposited into an official’s spouse’s account one day after a permit was approved. Another official’s household-linked construction company reportedly received R8.9 million between 2020 and 2023, with transaction references including “PRP” (permanent residence permit).

Investigators concluded that officials had effectively turned the permit system into a profit-making enterprise.

How the Visa Syndicate Operated

The SIU detailed a simple but effective modus operandi:

• Visa applications sent via WhatsApp for fast-tracked approval
• E-Wallet payments ranging from R500 to R3,000
• Cash hidden inside application forms
• Dummy phones used to avoid detection
• Bribes disguised as “Permit,” “Visa Process,” or “Building Material”

Officials allegedly used intermediaries and even non-RICA registered numbers to move money. Some asylum seekers reportedly sent E-Wallet payments to themselves and shared OTP codes with officials to complete transactions.

According to investigators, spouses became “silent partners in crime,” receiving bribes to obscure direct links between approvals and payments.

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High-Profile Beneficiaries Named in Report

The interim report also flags controversial figures who allegedly benefited from fraudulent immigration processes.

These include:

• Shepherd Bushiri
• Timothy Omotosho
• Prince Daniel Obioma

Bushiri’s permanent residence permit was allegedly approved by an adjudicator affiliated with his church, ECG Ministries, raising conflict-of-interest concerns. The SIU found evidence of fraudulent financial documentation and questioned a $1.2 million aircraft purchase tied to religious funds.

Omotoso, who was acquitted in 2025 on criminal charges, allegedly entered South Africa using a fraudulently obtained work permit issued under irregular authority.

Obioma reportedly overstayed his visa and later re-entered the country unlawfully.

The SIU has traced over R181 million in financial gains associated with beneficiaries of fraudulent visa applications.

Government Response: Digital Transformation and ETA Rollout

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber acknowledged that the report reflects two decades of maladministration between 2004 and 2024.

Schreiber emphasised that the Government of National Unity has prioritised systemic reform through digital transformation, particularly via the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system.

The ETA system:

• Uses machine learning to verify passport authenticity
• Employs biometric facial recognition
• Has already declined over 30,000 non-compliant tourist visa applications

The department confirmed:

• 275 criminal referrals related to visa corruption
• 111 investigations finalised
• Over 2,000 fraudulent visas under review
• 41 officials dismissed

Schreiber described the ETA as the “most powerful tool yet developed” to close loopholes that allowed discretion and manipulation.

SIU Investigation Ongoing

The SIU’s probe, conducted in collaboration with the Hawks and under Special Tribunal authority, involved raids at five Refugee Reception Offices, where laptops, phones, and files were seized.

The investigation is expected to conclude by September 2026, with further criminal prosecutions likely.

As South Africa grapples with border security concerns and governance reform, the SIU’s revelations underscore a stark reality: corruption within immigration systems can compromise national integrity, security and public trust.

FAQ

What did the Special Investigating Unit uncover at Home Affairs?

The SIU uncovered a widespread corruption syndicate within the Department of Home Affairs where officials allegedly sold visas, asylum permits and permanent residence approvals in exchange for bribes.

How much money was involved in the Home Affairs corruption scandal?

The SIU confirmed that four officials received R16.3 million in direct deposits. Additionally, R181 million in financial gains linked to fraudulent visa beneficiaries has been traced.

How were visas allegedly sold?

Visas were reportedly fast-tracked via WhatsApp applications, with bribes paid through E-Wallet transfers, cash concealed in application forms, and payments routed through spouses’ accounts.

Who authorised the SIU investigation?

The investigation was authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa under Proclamation 154 of 2024.

Which high-profile individuals were named in the report?

The report references Shepherd Bushiri, Timothy Omotoso and Nigerian rapper Prince Daniel Obioma as individuals who allegedly benefited from fraudulent immigration processes.

What is the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system?

The ETA is a digital visa verification system introduced by Home Affairs. It uses machine learning and biometric technology to detect fraudulent documents and prevent visa manipulation.

How many officials have been dismissed?

Home Affairs confirmed that 41 officials have been dismissed and 275 criminal referrals have been made related to visa corruption.

When will the SIU investigation conclude?

The interim report was released in February 2026, with the final investigation expected to conclude by September 2026.