Zuko Komisa
- BMA officials intercepted a taxi at Beitbridge Border Post carrying six undocumented minors.
- The driver was arrested on human smuggling charges for aiding illegal migration.
- The children are now in social care pending repatriation to their families in Zimbabwe.
On Monday, officials from the Border Management Authority (BMA) at the Beitbridge Border Post in Limpopo intercepted a taxi carrying six children. The minors were travelling without any form of documentation, parents, or legal guardians.
The driver was immediately arrested and faces charges of human smuggling and aiding illegal migration.
This interception underscores the persistent challenge of unauthorised movement across South Africa’s primary land border with Zimbabwe, particularly involving vulnerable minors.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato explained that these cases frequently involve parents living in South Africa who arrange informal transport for their children.
To ensure their safety, the six children have been handed over to the Department of Social Development and are being prepared for reunification with their families in Zimbabwe.
Amidst a broader crackdown on child exploitation, the BMA has increased its vigilance. Authorities have issued a stern reminder to both parents and transport operators that they must adhere to legal cross-border requirements or face criminal prosecution.
READ NEXT: More than 15 000 suspects arrested for crimes including murder over Easter
The post BMA intercepts taxi carrying six undocumented children at Beitbridge border appeared first on KAYA 959.