Two BMA officials among nine arrested for border corruption
A joint anti-corruption operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry has led to the arrest of two Border Management Authority (BMA) officers and seven others for their alleged involvement in facilitating the illegal movement of undocumented migrants across the border.
The South African Police Service said the Limpopo Provincial Anti-Corruption Unit, Musina detectives, the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), and BMA officials carried out the sting operation on Tuesday, 22 April, shortly after 09:00.
The focus was on disrupting the activities of individuals suspected of accepting bribes to allow unauthorised border crossings.
According to police, surveillance teams observed a white Mercedes Benz taxi stopping near a shop close to the border post.
Two BMA officers – a 61-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man – allegedly approached the taxi, accepted a bribe and allowed it to pass without inspection.
Authorities later intercepted the vehicle. Inside were 18 passengers – 13 with valid passports and five undocumented foreign nationals without travel documents.
Authorities arrested the driver and a female passenger, believed to have facilitated the illegal crossing, at the scene.
The authorities charged all nine suspects, including the two BMA officials, with corruption and brought them before the Musina Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, 23 April.
The five undocumented migrants face additional charges under the Immigration Act.
All accused are due to return to court on Thursday, 24 April, for a formal bail hearing.
Acting Provincial Police Commissioner in Limpopo, Major General Samuel Manala, commended the operation, saying it reflects the police's commitment to rooting out corruption and protecting the integrity of South Africa's borders.
'Public servants who choose to undermine the law for personal gain will face serious consequences,' said Manala.
'This successful operation highlights the importance of collaboration and vigilance in securing our borders.' he added.
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