Corruption threatens asylum seekers in SA

Widespread corruption is threatening the safety of those applying for asylum in South Africa.

Under-the-table payments are commonplace at refugee offices meaning some genuine asylum seekers are forced to return home, where they face persecution.

In Marabatad, Pretoria, more than half the refugees surveyed said they had been asked for a bribe.

“Not enough seriousness. Not enough attention was given by the department to this problem,” said Jacob van Garderen of Human Rights Lawyers.