Border guards intercept cross-border criminal syndicate at Kosi Bay

The Citizen

08-05-2025

A black Toyota Corolla attempting to cross into Mozambique was stolen in Durban North.
The Border Management Authority (BMA) intercepted and recovered three high-value assets suspected of being linked to transnational crime syndicates attempting to smuggle them into neighbouring countries.
BMA commissioner Michael Masiapato said the guards were stationed at the Kosi Bay port of entry when they made the bust.
Recoveries
'While conducting search operations at the customs inspection area, BMA Border Guards uncovered a black Senke motorbike frame concealed inside a trailer. The frame matched details from a pending police case of a stolen motorbike in Mayville.
'The suspect, who was en route to Malawi, was also found in possession of seven mobile phones for which he could not provide proof of ownership. He was detained in accordance with the Immigration Act, and a case was opened at Emanguzi Police Station,' Masiapato said.
Later in the day, the BMA Border Guards intercepted a white Toyota Hilux driven by a Mozambican man en route to Mozambique.
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Tampering
Masiapato said the guard found that the VIN and engine numbers had been tampered with. A detailed check confirmed that the vehicle had been reported stolen in Lyttelton.
'On the same day of the 5th of May at 5pm a joint team led by five BMA Border Guards recovered a black Toyota Corolla Cross attempting to cross into Mozambique. The driver failed to provide credible documentation of the vehicle.
'The Border Guards discovered that the vehicle was operating under a false disc and had tampered VIN and engine numbers. It was later confirmed that the vehicle was stolen in Durban North. The suspect was charged and detained at Emanguzi Police Station,' Masiapato said.
Warning
Masiapato sent a stern warning to criminal syndicates, saying the recoveries demonstrate the effectiveness of the BMA's law enforcement operations.
'Criminals attempting to exploit our ports for illicit activities will be met with swift and decisive enforcement. The BMA is closing the space for cross-border crime, and our Border Guards will continue to act with vigilance, professionalism, and integrity.'
Masiapato urged community members to report suspicious cross-border activities, as public cooperation is critical in curbing smuggling, vehicle theft, and undocumented movements across South Africa's borders.
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