BMA Repatriates Over 8,200 Foreign Nationals Through Beitbridge in Two Weeks

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has processed 8,230 foreign nationals through the Beitbridge Port of Entry between June 12 and 24 as part of ongoing repatriation efforts. The authority has warned that transport operators who fail to comply with documentation and cross-border requirements are delaying operations at the border. Between June 12 and 24, the BMA processed 6,709 Malawian nationals transported in 112 buses and 1,521 Zimbabwean nationals transported in 26 buses.

Mmemme Mogotsi, the BMA spokesperson, 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), forcing them to be directed to the Musina truck stop area until necessary documentation was obtained and verified.

The BMA has 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 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. The authority has called on transport operators to comply fully with immigration and administrative requirements before arriving at the port of entry, ensuring that buses are roadworthy, drivers are carrying valid passports, and all required cross-border permits have been obtained.

The BMA remains committed to working with stakeholders to ensure repatriation processes are conducted in accordance with the law. Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, "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."

"The port of entry will not be used as a waiting area for buses," Mogotsi said, emphasizing the need for compliance to ensure the smooth and efficient processing of repatriations. The BMA has 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 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.