, CMY2601 Assignment 1
Semester 2 2025
DUE August 2025
Use this document as a guide and for references to answer your assignment
1. Identify and explain the link between illegal immigrants entering the country,
and drug trafficking in South Africa. In conclusion provide insight into how this can
be combatted. (15 marks)
1. Introduction
Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are deeply intertwined security concerns in
South Africa. This essay examines how irregular migration facilitates drug
smuggling, how criminal networks exploit border weaknesses, and how corruption
exacerbates the problem. Finally, the essay outlines strategies to counter these
issues effectively.
2. Definitions
Illegal immigration: Entry or stay in South Africa without authorization—
either via unauthorized border crossings or visa overstays.
Drug trafficking: The illegal trade of controlled substances, including
smuggling, transportation, wholesaling, and distribution of narcotics such as
cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and cannabis.
3. Analysis: The Link Between Illegal Immigration and Drug Trafficking in
South Africa
a) Porous borders, weak control, and corruption
South Africa's land borders are notably porous, and corruption among immigration
and customs officials is rife. This allows undocumented immigrants and illicit
goods—including drugs—to cross unchecked. In some cases, passports are stamped
without being scanned, leaving no official record of entry . Corrupt practices at
entry points facilitate the penetration of organized criminal networks, enabling
them to move narcotics across borders with ease .
Semester 2 2025
DUE August 2025
Use this document as a guide and for references to answer your assignment
1. Identify and explain the link between illegal immigrants entering the country,
and drug trafficking in South Africa. In conclusion provide insight into how this can
be combatted. (15 marks)
1. Introduction
Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are deeply intertwined security concerns in
South Africa. This essay examines how irregular migration facilitates drug
smuggling, how criminal networks exploit border weaknesses, and how corruption
exacerbates the problem. Finally, the essay outlines strategies to counter these
issues effectively.
2. Definitions
Illegal immigration: Entry or stay in South Africa without authorization—
either via unauthorized border crossings or visa overstays.
Drug trafficking: The illegal trade of controlled substances, including
smuggling, transportation, wholesaling, and distribution of narcotics such as
cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, and cannabis.
3. Analysis: The Link Between Illegal Immigration and Drug Trafficking in
South Africa
a) Porous borders, weak control, and corruption
South Africa's land borders are notably porous, and corruption among immigration
and customs officials is rife. This allows undocumented immigrants and illicit
goods—including drugs—to cross unchecked. In some cases, passports are stamped
without being scanned, leaving no official record of entry . Corrupt practices at
entry points facilitate the penetration of organized criminal networks, enabling
them to move narcotics across borders with ease .
