The Border Management Authority (BMA) says it has processed 8,230 foreign nationals through the Beitbridge Port of Entry as part of ongoing voluntary repatriation efforts, while warning that non-compliant transport operators are causing unnecessary delays at the border.
Between 12 and 24 June, the authority facilitated the repatriation of 6,709 Malawian nationals travelling in 112 buses and a further 1,521 Zimbabwean nationals transported in 26 buses.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi said all foreign nationals arriving at the port of entry were processed in the presence of officials from their respective embassies to verify their identities, travel documents and compliance with South Africa’s immigration requirements.
Despite the progress, the authority reported several operational challenges that have slowed the repatriation process.
According to Mogotsi, 17 buses transporting foreign nationals arrived at the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Thursday without the required Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs). To prevent congestion at the border, the buses were redirected to the Musina truck stop until the necessary documentation could be obtained and verified.
The BMA also raised concerns over the number of South African-registered buses arriving at the border without valid cross-border permits, stressing that such vehicles are prohibited from crossing into neighbouring countries under existing legislation.
In addition, some drivers transporting foreign nationals were found to be travelling without passports, despite these being mandatory for cross-border travel.
The authority has urged transport operators to ensure they comply with all immigration and administrative requirements before arriving at the port of entry. This includes ensuring buses are roadworthy, drivers are in possession of valid passports and all required cross-border permits have been secured.
Mogotsi emphasised that the Beitbridge Port of Entry would not be used as a holding area for non-compliant buses, adding that proper preparation by transport operators would significantly improve the efficiency of repatriation operations.
The BMA has also called on foreign nationals participating in voluntary repatriation programmes to complete all required processing with the Department of Home Affairs before reporting to the border.
According to Mogotsi, identity verification by Home Affairs and security clearance by the South African Police Service, including checks to ensure wanted suspects are not among those being repatriated, must first be completed at the Musina Refugee Reception Centre.
She said this process is intended to minimise delays at the border and ensure the smooth flow of repatriation operations.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to ensuring that all repatriations are conducted lawfully and with dignity.
He said the BMA would continue working closely with the Departments of Home Affairs and International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), foreign embassies, law enforcement agencies, border management entities and transport operators to ensure repatriation processes are carried out safely, efficiently and in accordance with the law.
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