Over 1,500 Zimbabweans repatriated via Beitbridge in 12 days – South Africa’s Border Management Authority reports

South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) says it has processed 8,230 foreign nationals through the Beitbridge Port of Entry as part of ongoing repatriation efforts between 12 and 24 June.

Between 12 and 24 June, the BMA processed 1,521 Zimbabwean nationals transported in 26 buses and 6,709 Malawian nationals transported in 112 buses.

However, the authority has warned that transport operators who fail to comply with documentation and cross-border requirements are delaying operations at the border.

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.”

However, she said 17 buses transporting foreign nationals arrived at the Beitbridge Port of Entry on Thursday morning “without the required Emergency Travel Certificates (ETC)”.

“In order to decongest the Beitbridge Port of Entry, these buses could not be processed and were directed to the Musina truck stop area until the necessary documentation was obtained and verified,” Mogotsi said.

She said the authority had 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.

“In line with the law, buses without valid cross-border permits are not allowed to cross the border,” she said.

Mogotsi added that some drivers attempting to transport foreign nationals across the border were not in possession of passports, which are mandatory for cross-border travel.

Calling on transport operators to comply fully with immigration and administrative requirements before arriving at the port of entry, Mogotsi said operators should ensure buses are roadworthy, drivers are carrying valid passports and all required cross-border permits have been obtained.

“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 said.

Mogotsi added that “the port of entry will not be used as a waiting area for buses” and said complying with these requirements would contribute significantly to the smooth and efficient processing of repatriations.

She also urged foreign nationals participating in voluntary repatriation processes to first be processed by the Department of Home Affairs before presenting themselves at the port of entry.

According to Mogotsi, Department of Home Affairs verifications and all South African Police Service (SAPS) 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.”

She said the measure was necessary to prevent delays within the port environment and improve the efficiency of processing operations.

Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the authority remained committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure repatriation processes were conducted in accordance with the law.

“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,” Masiapato said.