Download the Pondoland Times app to get breaking national news, major government updates, public alerts, and important South African stories as they happen.
A parliamentary reply dated 12 February 2026 shows the Department of Home Affairs was not aware of an alleged wanted foreign national reportedly living in Cape Town.
The response follows a question raised in the National Assembly about a Bulgarian national allegedly wanted by Romanian authorities for drug trafficking and said to be working as a personal trainer in Constantia.
What happened
An MP asked the Minister of Home Affairs whether the department knew about the alleged presence of a foreign national listed by Interpol as wanted for serious crimes.
The question also raised concerns about how such a person could live and work openly in South Africa without detection.
In its written reply, the department said:
- It had no record of the person being flagged as wanted
- It did not receive any formal request from Interpol or Romanian authorities
- Without such a request, the system would not identify the person as wanted
Why it matters
This case highlights how South Africa’s immigration and law enforcement systems depend on formal international alerts.
If no Interpol request is submitted:
- Authorities may not detect wanted individuals entering or living in the country
- Monitoring systems cannot flag individuals automatically
- Public concern can grow about gaps in border control and enforcement
The issue is especially important for communities where the person is believed to be living and working openly.
What you need to know
Key details from the reply:
- The department uses the Movement Control System (MCS) to track entries and exits
- The system only flags individuals if alerts are formally submitted
- The person in question is a permanent resident since 2020
- As a permanent resident, the person does not require a work visa
- International wanted alerts rely on official communication from Interpol or other authorities
What to do next
If you are concerned about suspected criminal activity:
- Report information to the South African Police Service (SAPS)
- Avoid sharing unverified claims on social media
- Follow updates from official government channels
For employers and businesses:
- Ensure proper identity and background checks where possible
- Verify legal status through official documentatio
