Overview
- The BMA reports 22,483 travellers were processed at Beitbridge on January 3, marking a single-day festive peak.
- More than 546 undocumented travellers were intercepted nationwide on January 1–2, with deportation procedures initiated under immigration law.
- Commissioner Michael Masiapato is overseeing operations on site as extra personnel are deployed and multiple processing and interception points are activated across ports of entry.
- The BMA says high volumes during peak travel reflect seasonal movement rather than a breach of controls, with daily enforcement supported by the SANDF and SAPS.
- Health and biosecurity checks have been tightened, with vulnerable travellers prioritised in extreme heat and prohibited animal and plant products seized to protect food safety.