Date Posted

SA’s Border Management Authority repatriates over 8 000 migrants as deadline approaches

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South Africa’s (SA) Border Management Authority (BMA) says it has facilitated the repatriation of more than 8 200 undocumented migrants to Malawi and Zimbabwe this week, as pressure mounts ahead of a June 30 deadline set by civic groups.

 

According to the BMA, a total of 8 230 individuals were returned through the Beitbridge border post, marking one of the largest coordinated movements in recent weeks. The latest group arrived at the border in 17 buses without the required documentation.

 

BMA Spokesperson Mmeme Mogotsi said the operations form part of ongoing efforts to enforce immigration rules and manage cross-border movement in line with the law.

 

The authority also raised concerns about transport operators involved in repatriation activities. It noted that a number of buses used to transport migrants were registered in SA but lacked the necessary cross-border permits.

 

Under current regulations, vehicles without valid permits are not authorised to cross international borders. The BMA warned that such non-compliance could disrupt operations and delay processing.

 

Authorities have urged transport operators to adhere strictly to all immigration and administrative requirements to ensure smooth and lawful repatriation processes.

 

–SABC/ChannelAfrica–