Mama-Sihle

BMA BORDER GUARDS DISRUPT CROSS-BORDER CRIMINAL SYNDICATES AT KOSI BAY The Border Management Authority (BMA) continues to record significant success in its efforts to protect South Africa’s Ports of Entry from criminal exploitation. Commissioner Masiapato has sent a stern warning to criminal syndicates and reported that on Monday, 5 May 2025, BMA Border Guards stationed at Kosi Bay Port of Entry intercepted and recovered three high-value assets suspected to be linked to transnational crime syndicates attempting to smuggle them into neighbouring countries. On Monday morning while conducting search operations at the customs inspection area, BMA Border Guards uncovered a black Senke motorbike frame concealed inside a trailer. The frame matched details from a pending police case of a stolen motorbike in Mayville. The suspect, who was en route to Malawi, was also found in possession of seven mobile phones for which he could not provide proof of ownership. He was detained in accordance with the Immigration Act and a case was opened in Emanguzi Police station. Later in the day, the BMA Border Guards intercepted a white Toyota Hilux driven by a Mozambican male en route to Mozambique. Upon inspection, BMA Border Guards found that the VIN and engine numbers had been tampered with. A detailed check confirmed the vehicle was reported stolen in Lyttelton. On the same day of the 5th of May at 17:00, a joint team led by five BMA Border Guards recovered a black Toyota Corolla Cross attempting to cross into Mozambique. The driver failed to provide credible documentation of the vehicle. The Border Guards discovered that the vehicle was operating under a false disc and had tampered VIN and engine numbers. It was later confirmed that the vehicle was stolen in Durban North. The suspect was charged and detained at Emanguzi Police Station. Commissioner Michael Masiapato has commended the officers and sent a stern warning to these criminal syndicates highlighting that these recoveries demonstrate the effectiveness of the BMA’s law enforcement operations and the unwavering commitment of our officers. Commissioner Masiapato said: “Criminals attempting to exploit our ports for illicit activities will be met with swift and decisive enforcement. The BMA is closing the space for cross-border crime, and our Border Guards will continue to act with vigilance, professionalism, and integrity.” Commissioner Masiapato further urged community members to report suspicious cross-border activities, as public cooperation is critical to curbing smuggling, vehicle theft, and undocumented movements across South Africa’s borders. Commissioner Masiapato in 2024 launched the Anti-corruption campaign, Operation Hi Tivise which is a firm stance against fraud and corruption, calling on community members to help the BMA with the reporting of illegal activities. The hotline number to be used for reporting is 0801 229 019 or you can report using the BMA website bma.gov.za Pictures: @TheBMA_SA