Irish authorities have deported 42 South African nationals who were residing in the country without legal authorization as part of an immigration enforcement exercise.

The group, comprising nine men, 18 women, and 15 children, departed from Dublin Airport on a chartered flight on Thursday and arrived in South Africa on Friday morning. The children were deported as part of family units.

The operation was carried out by the Garda National Immigration Bureau following deportation orders issued by Irish authorities.

According to officials, two of the deported individuals had criminal convictions in Ireland.

Commenting on the exercise, Jim O'Callaghan stated that the majority of South Africans living in Ireland are doing so legally.

He emphasized that Ireland's immigration system must remain rules-based and effective, noting that enforcement measures, including deportations, are necessary to ensure compliance with immigration laws and maintain public confidence in the system.

The deported individuals have since arrived in South Africa following the completion of the operation.