South Africa Bans 400,000 Over Immigration Violations – Eduzim News

South Africa- Authorities have blacklisted 400,000 individuals from entering the country for five years, for flouting immigration laws. 

This crackdown follows the interception of over 410,000 people by the Border Management Authority (BMA), most of whom attempted to cross the border without proper documentation since 2022.

BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato confirmed that those apprehended were arrested, fingerprinted, declared undesirable for five years, and deported.

“We have also intercepted about 312 high-value vehicles intended for illegal export to other parts of the continent. These cases are now with SAPS detectives for further investigation,” Masiapato added.

To bolster security, the BMA plans to deploy drones during the festive season in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development. 

These unmanned aerial vehicles will monitor high-risk border areas, supported by mobile reaction units stationed near entry points for rapid response.

“While awaiting delivery of our own drones, this partnership ensures enhanced border surveillance and domain awareness at vulnerable ports and corridors,” Masiapato said.

With increased cross-border movement anticipated during the festive season, travellers were reminded to ensure compliance with all travel regulations.

• Passports and Visas: All travellers must carry valid machine-readable passports with at least one empty page and, where applicable, valid visas.
• Financed Vehicles: A letter of authorization from the financing institution is mandatory for those crossing borders with financed vehicles.
• Travelling with Minors: South African parents must present unabridged birth certificates for minors, or ensure the child’s details are endorsed in their passports. If only one parent is travelling, a consent letter from the other parent is required.

The BMA has also announced the deployment of 69 additional personnel to busy ports of entry to ensure smoother processing during the holiday season.

Masiapato urged travellers to plan early, remain patient, and abide by all regulations to facilitate hassle-free cross-border travel.

“High travel volumes are expected, and we appeal to all travellers to cooperate with border authorities during this period,” he said.

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