168 Mozambican Nationals Repatriated in Late-Night Operation at Lebombo Port
The Border Management Authority (BMA) has successfully repatriated a second group of 168 Mozambican nationals through the Lebombo Port of Entry, in an operation that stretched late into Sunday night.
The group, transported by the Mozambican Embassy from Mossel Bay in three buses, arrived at the border around 20h30. Processing continued until midnight, BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato confirmed.
Of the 168 Mozambican nationals processed, 141 were undocumented and deported in terms of the Immigration Act – 97 males and 44 females. Eight others held valid passports and were lawfully cleared for departure.
The group included 19 minors, who were processed alongside the Department of Social Development to ensure child protection protocols were followed.
One South African citizen who arrived with the group was refused departure after indicating he intended to accompany them to Mozambique without the proper travel arrangements.
The South African Police Service conducted biometric fingerprint verification using mobile scanners, confirming that no criminal records or outstanding warrants existed beyond previous immigration-related arrests for illegal presence.
“This operation demonstrates the importance of coordinated action between neighbouring countries and government stakeholders in managing migration in a lawful, humane and orderly manner,” Commissioner Masiapato said.
The repatriation follows a similar operation in recent days as authorities continue to process undocumented foreign nationals through the country’s ports of entry.