The Border Management Authority (BMA) has reinforced security along the Limpopo River on the South Africa–Zimbabwe border by deploying additional personnel and armoured vehicles.
The move comes as authorities continue to battle persistent cross-border smuggling in the area.
BMA introduces amoured vehicles to enhance patrols
As reported by SABC News, BMA Assistant Commissioner Balene Mkhabela said the authority is working closely with private sector partners who donated three specialised vehicles designed to operate in challenging border conditions.
He explained that the vehicles can navigate rough terrain along the borderline, with one capable of driving through water.
“…it can even drive in the water, so at the river there we manage to catch this people because they use the very same water it can drive in the water so we are able to intercept and cut the self made channels,” Mkhabela said.
This has improved patrols along the Limpopo River, where smugglers often use the river to cross. The development allows officials to intercept them and block illegal, self-made crossing routes.
BMA operations disrupt smuggling at Beitbridge
The amoured vehicle introductions come at a time when BMA is embracing technology to stop smuggling.
On Monday, the authorities intercepted the smuggling of illicit goods and food items at the Beitbridge Port of Entry.
Since the start of the 2025/26 festive season operations, the BMA has recorded a successful interception of more than R350 000 worth of non-perishable food items.
Officials also seized 210 car batteries weighing 2 063kg and valued at over R412 600.
The BMA also intercepted a H100 Hyundai truck with the value of R159 000.
The impact of technology
The BMA achieved these interceptions by deploying advanced, multi-faceted surveillance technology in operationally vulnerable areas.
Commissioner Masiapato said the milestone highlights the impact of an intelligence-led, technology-driven approach to border law enforcement.
