The South African consul-general in Dubai, Andrew Lebona, has been recalled amid allegations of security breaches and misconduct, as confirmed by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in a Khaleej Times report. The department acted on whistleblower information regarding alleged security violations, prompting Lebona’s return to Pretoria to address preliminary investigation findings.
DIRCO, responsible for managing South Africa’s diplomatic missions, stated that the investigation is ongoing. The recall comes after a Sunday Times report alleged a visa scam at the Dubai Embassy, suggesting that Lebona was involved in arranging break-ins at his offices to facilitate the illegal sale of visas to UAE citizens. He is also accused of helping his son unlawfully obtain diplomatic travel authority.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has expressed support for DIRCO’s investigation. He announced on social media that visas linked to the alleged fraud will be revoked, underscoring the need for digital transformation to prevent corruption and protect national security.