The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully processed the departure of 933 Mozambican nationals from South Africa to Mozambique through the Lebombo Port of Entry.
This was confirmed by Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato on Wednesday, June 3.
Of the 933 individuals processed, 349 originated from the Lindela Holding Facility and were transported by the Department of Home Affairs through its deportation programme. The remaining 584 individuals travelled from Mossel Bay through arrangements facilitated by the Mozambican High Commission.
The BMA says travellers underwent the required immigration processing, including identity verification, biometric checks and immigration status assessments, in accordance with South African immigration legislation and border management procedures.
Among those processed were individuals who did not possess valid travel documentation and others whose immigration status required further verification. In addition, 17 individuals who had previously entered South Africa legally were found to have overstayed their authorised period of stay. These cases were processed in accordance with the Immigration Act and applicable regulations.
About 38 minors formed part of the group and were processed with the assistance of the Department of Social Development to ensure compliance with all applicable child protection and cross-border movement requirements.
As part of the BMA’s mandate, all persons were screened and processed in accordance with health, security and immigration protocols before being permitted to proceed through the Port of Entry.At the conclusion of the operation, 926 individuals successfully departed South Africa for Mozambique.
Seven individuals were not permitted to depart following immigration processing and verification. These cases included individuals who did not meet the prescribed requirements for cross-border movement. Appropriate arrangements were made for all affected individuals in accordance with legal and administrative requirements.
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Commissioner Masiapato stated that the management of cross-border movement must be conducted in a manner that is lawful, orderly and consistent with South Africa’s immigration framework.
The BMA remains committed to facilitating legitimate travel while ensuring compliance with immigration legislation and safeguarding the integrity of our ports of entry. We will continue to work closely with our regional counterparts to promote safe, orderly and regular migration, while protecting the security interests of South Africa and the region,” he said.
