Authorities are noting a significant increase in cross-border movement from Mozambique to South Africa, with officials monitoring activities at key border points such as the Beitbridge border post and the Lebombo Port of Entry. The uptick is primarily due to returning Mozambican nationals who work in South Africa, as well as holiday season travelers.
Border Management Authority (BMA) officials, alongside the police, are actively engaged to prevent illegal crossings and manage the high volume of legitimate traffic. Measures have included heightened surveillance and check operations at South Africa's borders. The MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, Jacky Macie, visited the Lebombo border to oversee these operations. Her presence highlights the emphasis on maintaining order and security at these entry points.
Recent reports indicate the BMA apprehended 164 individuals attempting to enter South Africa illegally within just 24 hours. Methods of attempting to cross included packed cars and makeshift boats on the Limpopo River. Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato led the operations over the weekend, reflecting the intensified efforts to curb unauthorized crossings amid soaring holiday traffic.
During one operation, authorities apprehended 10 individuals within mere minutes. One of those arrested acknowledged previous illegal crossings, confessing, "For me, this is the second time to use this road. So, I don’t know where to run and hide myself. That’s why, when I saw police officers, I just stand, I just stop running. I don’t know where I was supposed to go and hide myself." This admission sheds light on the desperate measures some individuals resort to when trying to leap the border.
Illegitimate crossing attempts are not the only aspect of the current border situation. The BMA reported an increase in lawful border traffic, which reached its peak during the festive season. Many travelers returning to South Africa brought items such as school uniforms, snacks, food, and diapers for their families.
The authority has organized the Beitbridge border post to streamline the processing of both pedestrian travelers and those coming via bus. Travelers often endured long waits under the hot sun, arriving early to navigate the traffic. They reached South Africa primarily for work and post-holiday activities.
Despite the influx of legitimate border crossers, numerous illegal crossing attempts were reported. The BMA pointed out the presence of scouts acting as decoys for larger groups trying to infiltrate the borders. For example, after apprehending one scout, officials uncovered nine individuals hiding nearby, attempting to smuggle items like large appliances through treacherous terrain.
The BMA remains committed to continuing enforcement operations throughout January, anticipating increased traffic as many return to work. "We will give a detailed report through a press conference when we conclude the Festive season operations," the authority stated publicly, noting the need for more funding to bolster these efforts.
At the Lebombo Port of Entry, traffic has surged since recent days, with officials vigilant against illegal activities. Jacky Macie reassured the public, saying, "We can safely say there’s not much traffic coming, but maybe later today and tomorrow." She indicated expectations for higher volumes as people transition back to work after the festive holidays.
Authorities have also warned motorists about potential road dangers. The recent fatalities on local highways have been attributed to human error, with officials continuously urging safe driving practices.
Meanwhile, TRAC (the company managing the N4 toll road from South Africa to Maputo) mentioned disruptions due to protests within Mozambique, advising travelers to stay informed about local conditions. Spokesperson Solange Soares-Nichilson remarked, "All we have kept on advising motorists to arrest what is happening in the country... our route continues to operate as and when we can."
Traffic through these ports is expected to increase as many logistical companies resume operations and cargo trucks flood the Maputo Corridor. The authorities' balanced approach aims to facilitate legitimate trade and travel between Mozambique and South Africa, all the whilst safeguarding national security and border integrity.