BMA arrests two Mozambican nationals with 46 fake passports and R34,890 bribe attempt

In a significant crackdown on illegal border movements, the Border Management Authority (BMA) has confirmed the arrest of two Mozambican nationals who were caught with an astonishing 46 fake passports and over R34,890 in cash.

This operation, conducted on Thursday, 18 December 2025, highlights the continuing challenges of border security as festive season travel intensifies.

BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato confirmed the arrests occurred at Kosi Bay, where law-enforcement officers intercepted the suspects attempting to enter South Africa from Mozambique in a silver Volvo S40. Following a thorough search of the vehicle, officials uncovered the counterfeit passports cleverly concealed under a mat in the boot.

As if the fraudulent documents weren’t enough, the suspects also attempted to bribe BMA officers with the cash found during the search, in an effort to evade arrest. Their attempts were in vain as law-enforcement officers, showcasing their commitment to uphold the law, overpowered them and made the arrests. The suspects now face serious charges, including fraud, bribery, and resisting arrest.

Dr Masiapato remarked on the operation’s success, emphasising the BMA’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and transnational organised crime. “This interception underscores our commitment to safeguarding our borders and maintaining national security during this busy period,” he said.

According to Masiapato, the operation is part of a strengthened multi-layered approach designed to ensure safe, efficient, and well-coordinated border management during this peak travel period.

“As daily movements continue to increase, the Border Management Authority remains on high alert, committed to facilitating legitimate travel and trade while decisively preventing illegal activities and safeguarding South Africa’s borders,” Masiapato said on Friday.

The Commissioner is operating from the ground, overseeing border operations, with the processing of people and goods continuing smoothly and unimpeded at all Ports of Entry across the country.

Furthermore, Masiapato revealed that the BMA has recorded a surge in illegal crossings, with officers having further intercepted 585 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals at the Grobler Bridge port of entry who were attempting to leave South Africa without the necessary travel documentation and carrying undeclared goods. Additionally, approximately 142 Basotho nationals were apprehended at Sani Pass amid growing movement across the borders.

The BMA has also temporarily suspended operations at the Sendelingsdrift port of entry with Namibia due to safety concerns posed by unstable water levels. Dr Masiapato is actively monitoring these operations and has plans to visit the Maseru Bridge, where traveller volumes have spiked, though they remain under control.

Through strengthened collaborative efforts with other law enforcement agencies, Dr Masiapato insists that the integrity of South Africa’s borders will be preserved, ensuring a secure environment for all citizens and visitors alike.