Authorities at the Beitbridge border have apprehended a taxi driver accused of attempting to smuggle 25 undocumented Zimbabweans, including 20 children, into South Africa.
The incident, which highlights ongoing border security challenges, occurred on Monday afternoon.
The suspect was transporting the group in a dangerously overcrowded 16-seater minibus, described by Border Management Authority (BMA) spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi as “inhumane and unsafe.”
The vehicle was promptly impounded, and the driver is now in police custody. A conveyance fine of R375,000 has been issued under the Immigration Act.
The group consisted of children aged between five and 14, as well as five adults. Mogotsi confirmed that the children were handed over to Zimbabwean child welfare authorities to ensure their safety while investigations continue. The five adults have also been detained as part of the probe.
This incident follows a similar operation at the Lebombo port of entry last Friday, where officials intercepted a minibus transporting children aged between four and 14. Last week, 96 undocumented children were also rescued from a disused mine in Stilfontein by the North West Department of Social Development.
Acting BMA Commissioner Jane Thupana reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combating human trafficking and smuggling at the country’s borders.
“The trafficking and smuggling of people undermine human dignity and border security, and the BMA remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard SA’s ports of entry and protect those at risk,” Thupana said.
These cases highlight the vulnerability of undocumented individuals, particularly children, to exploitation and the critical need for heightened border security to disrupt criminal networks preying on them.
