In a decisive move, the Border Management Authority (BMA) warns bus operators transporting illegal immigrants to face permit revocation. Expressing concern over the surge in incidents during the 2023/24 festive period, the BMA issued 98 administrative fines totaling R3,540,000 to conveyancers, particularly bus companies, involved in the illicit transportation.
Dr. Mike Masiapato, the BMA Commissioner, revealed that bus companies were charging R15,000 per person for transporting illegal migrants across South Africa’s borders. The authority successfully collected R9.8 million in outstanding fines from approximately 25 bus companies. Despite their efforts, the BMA held discussions with representatives from 30 implicated bus companies, urging them to cease such activities.
Committing to enforcing stricter measures, the bus companies pledged to mandate valid passports for all travelers purchasing cross-border tickets and boarding buses on travel days. Collaborating with the Cross-Border Road Transport Agency, the BMA emphasized the necessity for bus companies to comply with the conditions of their cross-border permits, cautioning that non-compliance could lead to permit withdrawal.
During the observed 43 days, South Africa witnessed 5,096,288 travelers across its 71 ports of entry, marking a million more than the previous year but still below pre-Covid levels. Notably, OR Tambo International Airport served as the primary entry point, with substantial increases at key ports like Lebombo from Mozambique and Beitbridge from Zimbabwe.
Law enforcement efforts resulted in the apprehension of 15,924 individuals attempting illegal entry, predominantly around the Lebombo port of entry. Of these, 6,455 were denied entry for various reasons, including criminal histories and Interpol’s Red List alerts. Additionally, 4,626 people were refused entry due to invalid passports, fraudulent visas, or the absence of valid yellow fever certificates.
In total, 27,005 individuals were deported for attempting illegal entry, underscoring the BMA’s commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s borders and maintaining the integrity of its immigration processes.
