South Africa has accelerated its immigration enforcement efforts ahead of planned nationwide anti-illegal immigration demonstrations on 30 June, with more than 8,000 foreign nationals repatriated through the Beitbridge Port of Entry in less than two weeks.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) confirmed that 8,230 people were processed for repatriation between 12 and 24 June 2026, making it one of the country’s largest coordinated border operations this year.
According to BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi, the operation included 6,709 Malawian nationals transported in 112 buses and 1,521 Zimbabwean nationals travelling in 26 buses.
Officials said all repatriations were conducted under established immigration procedures, with embassy representatives present to verify identities, travel documentation and compliance with legal requirements before departure.
Documentation Problems Delay Border Processing
Despite the large-scale operation, border officials encountered several logistical and administrative challenges.
On Thursday morning, 17 buses carrying foreign nationals arrived at Beitbridge without the required Emergency Travel Certificates (ETCs), preventing authorities from processing passengers immediately.
To avoid congestion at the busy border crossing, the buses were redirected to the Musina truck stop area until the necessary documents could be obtained and verified.
The BMA also identified compliance issues involving transport operators participating in the repatriation programme.
Several buses registered in South Africa lacked valid cross-border operating permits, while some drivers attempting to transport passengers across the border were found not to possess passports, a legal requirement for international travel.
Authorities stressed that vehicles without the appropriate permits would not be allowed to cross into neighbouring countries.
BMA Calls For Full Compliance
The Border Management Authority urged transport companies involved in repatriation operations to ensure that all legal requirements are met before arriving at ports of entry.
This includes confirming that buses are roadworthy, drivers carry valid passports and all cross-border transport permits have been issued.
Officials also reminded foreign nationals participating in voluntary repatriation programmes that they must first complete processing through the Department of Home Affairs before reporting to Beitbridge.
Identity verification, immigration processing and SAPS security clearances—including checks to ensure that wanted suspects are not leaving as part of the repatriation process—must be completed at the Musina Refugee Reception Centre before travellers proceed to the border.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the authority remains committed to conducting every repatriation lawfully, safely and with dignity.
He added that the BMA will continue working closely with the Department of Home Affairs, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), foreign embassies, law enforcement agencies, border authorities and transport operators to ensure that repatriation operations remain orderly and efficient.
Earlier this month, the authority also coordinated the departure of 933 Mozambican nationals through the Lebombo Port of Entry, highlighting South Africa’s ongoing efforts to strengthen border management and immigration enforcement.
Source: Border Management Authority (BMA).