Beitbridge: Two Border Management Authority (BMA) Immigration officials, alongside other suspects, are facing charges of corruption following their arrest during an intelligence-driven operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry.
According to South African Government News Agency, the operation led to the arrest of the two BMA Immigration officials, five undocumented foreign nationals, and two suspected facilitators. They are accused of facilitating unlawful entry into the Republic and violating the Immigration Act.
The operation, executed on Tuesday around 09:00, was spearheaded by two BMA executive members. It followed extensive monitoring and the use of advanced surveillance technology at the port. After identifying suspicious activities, the executives promptly contacted the South African Police Service (SAPS) Detectives in Musina, the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) for further processing of the case.
During the operation, a white Mercedes-Benz taxi was observed near a shop at the port. The two BMA officials, a 61-year-old female and a 44-year-old male, were seen interacting with the facilitator and allegedly allowed the taxi to pass through after receiving a bribe. Upon interception, the vehicle was found transporting 18 passengers, of whom five were undocumented.
A female passenger and the taxi driver, suspected of facilitating the illegal entry, were also arrested. All nine suspects were charged with corruption and appeared before the Musina Magistrate’s Court. The five undocumented individuals face additional charges under the Immigration Act, with the case postponed for a formal bail application.
The BMA has suspended the implicated officials pending the outcome of internal disciplinary processes and the criminal investigation. Acting Commissioner Jane Thupana praised the BMA executive team’s proactive involvement and reiterated the authority’s commitment to eradicating corruption.
Thupana stated, “This operation reflects the BMA’s firm stance against corruption within its ranks. I applaud the executive members for leading from the front and taking decisive action to restore integrity at one of our busiest ports.”
She emphasized the BMA’s determination to disrupt illegal facilitation networks and ensure accountability, adding that the operation reinforces their goal to implement body-worn cameras across all ports of entry. During the Easter period, 40 body cameras were deployed to enhance monitoring and accountability.
“The implementation of body cameras is not just about oversight: it’s about protecting both the official and the public, and ensuring that every interaction at our ports is transparent, lawful, and traceable,” Thupana said.
Beitbridge port of entry is South Africa’s busiest land border and a critical commercial gateway into Africa. As movements increase during the Easter travel period, the BMA is intensifying its operations to intercept illegal activities and dismantle facilitation networks.