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The Border Management Authority (BMA) has announced its festive season strategy to address heightened border activities between December 2024 and January 2025. This comprehensive plan seeks to tackle challenges such as illegal immigration, cross-border crimes, and the smuggling of illicit goods.
BMA Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato outlined key interventions, including extended operating hours at major ports of entry, the deployment of 69 additional personnel, and collaboration with Interpol and local law enforcement agencies.
“We anticipate facilitating over six million people, reaching pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels. Our focus is on delivering integrated, efficient, and effective processes at the ports of entry, ensuring only legitimate people and goods are allowed to cross our borders,” said Masiapato during a media briefing.
Key Measures to Strengthen Border Security
The BMA has introduced several initiatives to enhance border security:
- Increased Personnel and Monitoring: Ports of entry and vulnerable border segments will be reinforced to intercept unauthorized crossings and prevent illegal activities.
- Combatting Illicit Goods: Heightened efforts will be made to detect and confiscate narcotics, stolen vehicles, and other prohibited items.
- Targeting Illegal Mining: As part of Operation Vala Umgodi, border guards will work to intercept deported illegal miners attempting to re-enter South Africa.
Masiapato also issued a stern warning to travelers: “Any criminal activity around the ports of entry or border enforcement areas will be detected, leading to arrest and deportation.”
Focus on Food Safety and Biosecurity
In line with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s directives to address food contamination, the BMA has intensified efforts to detect and prevent the illegal importation of hazardous pesticides such as aldicarb and terbufos. The latter was linked to the deaths of six children in Naledi, Soweto.
“Our biosecurity experts have been instructed to implement strict handling protocols across all ports of entry,” Masiapato stated.
Enhanced Technology and Collaboration
The BMA is leveraging technology and partnerships to boost border management:
- Drone Deployment: Partnering with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development, drones will be used to enhance situational awareness and monitor vulnerable areas. These operations will be supported by mobile reaction units to ensure swift apprehension of illegal immigrants and cross-border criminals.
- Mobile Units: Quick-response teams will be stationed at critical areas to handle emerging threats efficiently.
Health Advisory for Travellers
Addressing public health concerns, Masiapato noted that South Africa’s risk classification for Mpox remains moderate. However, he cautioned travelers to avoid close contact with individuals showing symptoms like skin lesions or muscle aches, as the country currently lacks a Mpox vaccine.
Ports of Entry Under Spotlight
The BMA manages 71 ports of entry, including 52 land ports, 10 international airports, and 9 seaports. Among the busiest are OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng, the Beitbridge land port to Zimbabwe, and the Lebombo land port to Mozambique.
“During the return leg in January 2025, we warn those attempting to enter South Africa illegally that our border guards, in collaboration with the SANDF, will be ready to intercept them,” Masiapato emphasized.
A Call for Vigilance
As the festive season approaches, the BMA has underscored the need for robust, integrated border management to safeguard national security, promote economic growth, and support regional economic integration. Travelers are urged to comply with regulations to ensure smooth passage through the country’s borders.