The Government of Lesotho and of the United Kingdom (UK) have formed partnership aimed at eradicating the spread of illegal issuing of passports in the country.

The decision came out of a realisation that most criminal offences such as terrorism, fraud and theft which occur in the United Kingdom are committed by people who are Lesotho passport holders and yet are not legal citizens of Lesotho.

Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa noted that from August 01, 2008, Lesotho will work with the United Kingdom in various thematic areas such as ensuring that immigration officers who issue illegal passports are taken to the courts of law.

“A team from United Kingdom will also work hand in hand with the police including the Ministry of Home Affairs to investigate the extent of the problem. Serious measures will be taken against those involved in issuing of illegal passports to foreigners,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Tsekoa stated that the exercise will be carried for a period of six months and afterwards progress will be monitored.

“It is only when there are positive results that Basotho will be allowed to visit United Kingdom without visa (International permit for international travelers).”

The Minister has called on all Basotho to join forces in tackling the problem to avoid tarnishing more Lesotho's image in other countries.

Reports from the United Kingdom show that Brazil, Namibia, South Africa, Malaysia, Venezuela, Bolivia, Botswana, Swaziland, Mauritius and Tobago are also hard hit by this corruption scam.

The issue of illegal passports has always been a major concern in the country with some immigration officers having been taken to court.

Illegal issuance of passports to foreigners has led to government intention to introduce the use of Identity Document (ID) to curb the problem.

Source: LENA 24/07/2008