Systems at Lebombo Border smooth despite heavy traffic flow

The Border Management Authority (BMA) says it has deployed an increased number of personnel at the Lebombo Border Post as part of their exit leg strategy.

According to BMA commissioner and CEO Mike Masiapato, they have increased the number of officials on the ground, including IT professionals, to ensure the system runs smoothly throughout.

“We have not had any issues with the systems so far, even from the side of the trucks. But we are ready for anything, hence we have brought people who will help with emigrations work, access control into the ports and IT individuals to ensure that the system stays running. We have had to also ensure that generators are ready on standby in case of any load-shedding instances. We have also worked closely with other departments in law enforcement to help manage the situation,” said Masiapato.

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He further added that the exit phase will go on until the last day of the year, while the entry phase will resume on the first of the next, focusing on the number of people coming into the country.

“The entry phase is the most hectic one, because that’s when people attempt to get into the country unlawfully. We will make sure that even the borderline is monitored to ensure that people do not enter into the country illegally.”

Masiapato urged travellers to ensure that all their documents are in order, especially those travelling with minors.

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“Motorists should ensure they have all the documents that make them legitimate travellers. If you’re travelling with a minor and the other parent is not with you, we will require a letter of acknowledgment with regards to the trip. We are ready to turn back people who do not adhere to the rules when it comes to having all the required documents to leave the country,” he added.

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