Africa-Press – Eswatini. Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has assured the nation that there is no need for panic over the recent arrival of five deported inmates from the United States of America, as Eswatini already houses individuals convicted of more serious crimes.
The PM made the remarks during a press briefing held on 18 July 2025 at the Private and Cabinet Offices at Hospital Hill, following growing public interest and concern over the country’s capacity to manage foreign convicts.
“Eswatini is currently holding inmates who have committed more dangerous crimes than those attributed to the five deportees,” Dlamini said. “We’ve managed such inmates before, and we are confident in our correctional system’s ability to manage these ones too.”
The deportees from the US are currently being held at His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS) facilities. According to Dlamini, their stay in Eswatini is temporary, and the government is working on a plan to repatriate them to their countries of origin.
“While I cannot confirm the exact duration, the deportees are not expected to remain in the country for more than 12 months,” he said.
Questions Over US Deportation Policy
The Prime Minister was also asked if Eswatini would be accepting more deportees in the near future, especially in light of statements reportedly made by former US President Donald Trump, who expressed his desire to deport up to four million prisoners before leaving office.
In response, Dlamini was firm:
“As it stands, only the five deportees have been accepted. Should the US wish to send more, new discussions will need to be held. Decisions will be based on our national capacity and the profile of the individuals.”
He emphasised that Eswatini’s ability to manage inmates is not in question, but security protocols must guide all decisions, particularly in sensitive international matters.
Security Considerations and Public Communication
Dlamini also addressed concerns over the lack of early public disclosure, stating that some issues—especially those concerning national security—cannot be shared openly.
“We must all understand that there are decisions and operations that must remain confidential for the safety of the nation,” he said.
When asked if the United States government would be expected to finance the construction of a correctional facility in Eswatini, given the country’s already overcrowded prisons, Dlamini said such an investment would only make sense if the number of deportees increased significantly.
“It would not be logical to build a correctional facility for just five inmates,” he remarked.
Summary
Five US deportees are currently held at HMCS.
Their stay is temporary, not exceeding 12 months.
Eswatini houses more dangerous criminals than the deportees.
The acceptance of future deportees would depend on national capacity and detailed discussions.
The Prime Minister urged the public to trust the government’s handling of security matters.
They comprise five adult males, convicted of serious crimes in the U.S. – including offences such as murder and child rape.
Their countries of origin are confirmed as:
Vietnam
Jamaica
Cuba
Yemen
Laos.
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