The operation was launched ahead of Easter to manage increased cross‑border movement between SA and Zimbabwe and to curb illegal crossings and the smuggling of goods. During the period, the BMA deployed enhanced security measures, including surveillance drones and all‑terrain amphibious vehicles, to strengthen control along the border.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the operation was successful and credited the use of technology and coordinated response teams for improved visibility and rapid intervention.
“So now in this instance, the drones are not demobilised,” Masiapato said. “This means we still have the ability to monitor the area and activate our response teams when necessary.”
While the special Easter phase has ended, Masiapato said border operations will not return to business as usual. Instead, the BMA has entered what it calls a sustenance phase.
“The only difference is that we will now be responding with our Land Cruisers, which are our standard patrol vehicles,” he explained. “The sustenance phase means we will continue with heightened operations as part of our daily activities.”
Beitbridge is one of SA’s busiest land ports of entry and is often under pressure during peak travel periods such as Easter and the festive season. The border is also a known hotspot for illicit crossings and contraband smuggling.
–SABC/ChannelAfrica–
