BMA says 8,230 foreign nationals processed through Beitbridge in two weeks

The Border Management Authority (BMA) says it processed 8,230 foreign nationals through the Beitbridge Port of Entry as part of repatriation efforts between 12 and 24 June. The authority warned that transport operators who fail to meet documentation and cross-border permit requirements are delaying operations at the border.

Numbers and nationalities

According to the BMA, 6,709 Malawian nationals were transported in 112 buses and a further 1,521 Zimbabwean nationals were transported in 26 buses during the period between 12 and 24 June.

Documentation checks and delays

BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi said all foreign nationals arriving for repatriation were processed “in the presence of officials from their respective embassies to verify identity, travel documentation and compliance with applicable immigration requirements.”

Mogotsi said 17 buses transporting foreign nationals arrived at Beitbridge one Thursday morning “without the required Emergency Travel Certificates (ETC).” She said those buses “could not be processed and were directed to the Musina truck stop area until the necessary documentation was obtained and verified.”

The authority also noted that a significant number of buses transporting repatriated foreign nationals were registered in South Africa but did not possess the required cross-border permits. Mogotsi said: “In line with the law, buses without valid cross-border permits are not allowed to cross the border.”

Requirements for transport operators and participants

Mogotsi emphasised several requirements for operators and drivers, saying they should ensure buses are roadworthy, drivers are carrying valid passports and all required cross-border permits have been obtained. She said: “This includes ensuring that buses are roadworthy, drivers are in possession of valid passports, and that all required cross-border permits have been obtained.”

She added that “the port of entry will not be used as a waiting area for buses” and that compliance with these requirements would contribute to smoother and more efficient processing of repatriations.

Pre-processing and clearances

Mogotsi urged foreign nationals participating in voluntary repatriation to first be processed by the Department of Home Affairs before presenting themselves at the port of entry. She said Department of Home Affairs verifications and all South African Police Service clearances “which include ensuring that wanted suspects are not part of the repatriation, must first be completed at the Musina Refugee Reception Centre before arrival at Beitbridge Port of Entry.”

BMA commitment

Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the authority remained committed to co‑ordinating with stakeholders to ensure repatriations follow legal and orderly procedures. He said: “The BMA remains committed to working closely with the Departments of Home Affairs and International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), foreign embassies, all law enforcement agencies, border entities and transport operators to ensure that all repatriation processes are conducted in a lawful, safe, dignified and orderly manner.”