'They pose no immediate threat': Eswatini confirms arrival of 10 convicts deported from United States
His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) in neighbouring Kingdom of Eswatini has confirmed the arrival of 10 third-country nationals deported from the United States, marking a new phase in the ongoing transfer of convicted foreign nationals to Eswatini.
On Monday, IOL reported that Eswatini was set to receive the second batch of convicted criminals from the United States, a move that has previously raised significant concerns in South Africa regarding regional security and immigration protocols.
Following the arrival of the second group, Assistant Chief Officer Baphelele Kunene said the 10 individuals arrived on Monday, 6 October, and are being securely accommodated at one of the country’s correctional facilities.
“The nationals who arrived today are in good health and undergoing admission processes,” Kunene said in a statement. “They pose no immediate threat to public safety and remain under strict supervision and care within the department’s facilities.”
Kunene said the Eswatini government continues to collaborate with relevant local and international stakeholders to facilitate the group’s orderly repatriation, part of an ongoing programme between Eswatini and the United States concerning deported or transferred offenders.
The latest development follows reports earlier this week that the United States was deporting a larger group of convicted criminals to Eswatini. Government sources had at the time assured the public that the individuals posed no security risk and would be held under close supervision upon arrival.
His Majesty’s Correctional Services reaffirmed its commitment to humane treatment, fairness, and respect for human rights in line with national laws and international correctional standards.
“The department continues to uphold principles of dignity, fairness, and respect for human rights, in accordance with national legislation and international correctional standards,” Kunene added.
His Majesty’s Correctional Services further underscored that it strictly adheres to the Correctional Services Act, which governs the handling of inmates’ personal information.
“All inmate information remains confidential and is only accessible to authorised individuals or organisations with a legal obligation or authority concerning the said inmates,” the statement said.
In August, IOL reported that the South African government had raised “deep concern” following the arrival of the initial group of five convicted criminals deported from the United States in the neighbouring Kingdom of Eswatini.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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