6 million travellers expected as SA strengthens border operations

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has unveiled its festive season plan, running from December to January, to manage increased border activities.

South Africa faces complex border challenges, including illegal immigration, cross-border crimes, and smuggling.

Key interventions include extended operating hours at major ports of entry, deploying 69 additional personnel, and collaborating with Interpol and local law enforcement.

BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the agency expects to facilitate over six million travellers, returning to pre-Covid-19 levels.

“Our focus will be the delivery of integrated, effective and efficient processes at the ports of entry, where only legitimate people and goods will be allowed to enter and exit South Africa,” he told the media.

To achieve this, Masiapato announced that ports of entry and vulnerable segments of the borderline will be guarded to intercept transgressors.

He stated the agency has intensified efforts to detect and seize illicit goods, including narcotics and stolen vehicles.

Illegal mining and food contamination

As Operation Vala Umgodi continues targeting illegal mining, border guards remain vigilant to prevent deported illegal miners from re-entering South Africa.

“We, therefore, want to warn all travellers to desist from committing any act of criminality around the ports of entry and at the border law enforcement areas, as they will be detected, arrested, and then deported.”

In response to food contamination concerns and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directives, the BMA has instructed all ports of entry to detect and intercept banned pesticides like aldicarb and terbufos, linked to six children’s deaths in Soweto.

“As such, the handling protocols have been given to our biosecurity experts for implementation across all ports of entry,” Masiapato said.

Ports with the most movement

The BMA oversees 71 ports of entry, including 52 land ports, 10 international airports, and nine seaports.

Key ports facilitating the most movement include OR Tambo International Airport, Beitbridge, Lebombo, Caledonspoort, Maseru Bridge, Cape Town International Airport, Oshoek, Kopfontein, and Groblers’ Bridge.

Masiapato stressed the importance of a robust, integrated border management platform to safeguard national security and economic growth.

“During the return leg in January 2025, we would like to send a stern warning to all individuals who might be planning to try to enter South Africa illegally: Border guards, working with members of the SANDF [South African National Defence Force], will be waiting for them.”

While waiting for the arrival of drones, the commissioner announced a partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development. This collaboration will involve the deployment of drones to improve border security and enhance situational awareness, particularly in vulnerable areas such as ports and corridors.

Masiapato also warned travellers about mpox, noting the moderate risk classification and urging vigilance against symptoms like skin lesions and muscle aches.

“Currently, there is no mpox vaccine in South Africa, therefore, travellers are encouraged to remain vigilant against Mpox disease.” – SAnews.gov.za