Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has called on foreign nationals residing in or visiting South Africa to respect the country’s laws and conduct themselves as “well-mannered guests.”
Speaking after a cabinet meeting, Ntshavheni emphasized that the rule of law remains the foundation of any stable society and applies equally to both citizens and non-citizens. Her comments come in the wake of a tragic bus crash in Limpopo that claimed 43 lives and exposed an illegal operation involving stolen prescription drugs, including antiretrovirals (ARVs).
Authorities discovered bags filled with the stolen medication among the wreckage, raising alarm over the growing problem of pharmaceutical theft and smuggling. The illegal possession and transport of scheduled medicines, such as ARVs, without authorisation contravenes the Medicines and Related Substances Act.
Health experts have warned that inconsistent use of stolen ARVs could contribute to drug resistance, threatening national efforts to manage HIV. South Africa, which has one of the world’s largest HIV treatment programmes, relies on strict regulation of these drugs to protect millions of patients.
Ntshavheni’s statement, according to government sources, is not an attack on foreign nationals but a reminder that all who live in the country must uphold its laws. She said lawlessness in critical sectors such as healthcare endangers lives and undermines the nation’s reputation.
The minister’s comments also come amid heightened tensions between locals and some foreign nationals, with incidents involving groups such as Operation Dudula, which have sought to prevent foreigners from accessing healthcare services.
The government has vowed to intensify its crackdown on pharmaceutical smuggling and other criminal activities. Law enforcement agencies have launched a full investigation into the Limpopo incident, describing it as a serious crime.
Officials stressed that protecting the integrity of South Africa’s healthcare system requires cooperation from all residents. “The law must be obeyed. South Africa’s progress depends on upholding the rule of law and protecting the systems that serve its people,” Ntshavheni said.
