The Department of International Relations and Co-operation (Dirco) has officially recalled Andrew Tsepo Lebona, the Consul General to Dubai, following whistleblower allegations of a sophisticated visa scam.
Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that the recall was prompted by reports indicating security breaches and misconduct within the consulate. It is alleged that the office was involved in selling visas to individuals in the United Arab Emirates.
In an interview with eNCA, Phiri stated that a team of investigators has been assigned to the case, which is still in its preliminary stages. He emphasized that the decision to recall Lebona was necessary for him to address the questions raised by the investigation.
The findings from the investigation will be compiled into a report, which will be reviewed by the director general and subsequently forwarded to the Dirco minister for a final decision.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber expressed his full support for Dirco’s investigation, announcing that any visas linked to the alleged fraud will be revoked. In a post on X, he stated, “As I warned in Parliament this week, corruption that threatens our national security will continue in the absence of wholesale digital transformation.”
Schreiber underscored the importance of eliminating outdated paper-based processes, declaring it a top priority to safeguard South Africa’s sovereignty.