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The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully disrupted a new human and child smuggling operation.

Yesterday afternoon, a South African taxi driver was stopped at the Beitbridge border while trying to smuggle 25 undocumented foreigners into the country from Zimbabwe.

Among them were twenty children between the ages of five and fourteen. The children were unlawfully transported under dangerous and inhumane conditions.

The vehicle used in the operation has been seized and the driver has been charged and is in police custody.

A transport fine of R375,000 has been imposed, in accordance with Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

Following standard protocols, the children were handed over to Zimbabwean child welfare authorities to ensure their safety and care while investigations continued.

BMA Acting Commissioner Jane Thupana praised the quick action of the officers.

“This operation highlights the BMA’s determination to disrupt criminal networks that exploit vulnerable individuals, particularly children.

“The trafficking and smuggling of human beings undermines human dignity and border security, and the BMA remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard South Africa’s ports of entry and protect those at risk,” she said.

The BMA continues to work closely with other law enforcement authorities to combat illegal activities.

The public is urged to report suspicious activities related to human trafficking and smuggling to ensure perpetrators are brought to justice and victims are protected.

The BMA’s free hotline number is 0801 229 019. – SAnews.gov.za

Lebombo border guards foil the smuggling of 14 children into South Africa

In another child trafficking incident, the Lowvelder reported that the BMA on Friday intercepted a taxi transporting children between the ages of four and 16 from Mozambique.

“The driver was immediately arrested and charged with aiding and abetting illegal entry in accordance with the Immigration Act. The rescued children were handed over to the Ministry of Social Development for care and support.”