The Border Management Authority (BMA), working closely with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), intercepted more than 20 minors near the Limpopo River, close to the Beitbridge border fence.
The children, aged between five and 17, were stopped during routine border safeguarding operations.
Officials believe the group was travelling from South Africa into Zimbabwe when authorities intercepted them.
They are also believed to have been travelling from Gauteng to Zimbabwe, possibly returning after spending the festive holidays in South Africa ahead of the reopening of schools.
Newsroom Afrika reports that the minors have since been deported to Zimbabwe.
Most minors travelling without parents or guardians
The group also included 10 adults.
However, preliminary checks showed that only one adult was the biological parent of a single child.
The remaining minors were travelling without parental supervision or lawful guardianship, raising immediate red flags for authorities.
Authorities raise child protection concerns involving minors
BMA said the interception raised serious concerns about child safety.
They pointed to possible exploitation, child trafficking, and violations of South African immigration and child welfare laws.
Investigations and welfare interventions underway
Authorities placed all individuals under the care of relevant government departments.
The BMA worked with the South African Police Service and the Department of Social Development to verify identities, establish travel circumstances, and decide on appropriate interventions.
Investigators are also assessing whether any criminal activity, including human trafficking or exploitation, played a role.
Zero tolerance on unlawful movement of minors
The BMA reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on the unlawful movement of children across borders. Officials warned that travelling without proper documentation or adult supervision exposes minors to serious risks, including abuse and exploitation.
