BMA Commissioner Praises Border Guards for Arrest and Seizure of 34 Passports

"We are proud of their contribution to maintaining the integrity of our nation's ports of entry," Masiapato added.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Pretoria | Updated: 21-08-2024 19:26 IST | Created: 21-08-2024 19:26 IST
BMA Commissioner Praises Border Guards for Arrest and Seizure of 34 Passports
During a routine inspection, the Border Guards discovered 34 passports along with banknotes in the suspect’s possession. Image Credit: Twitter(@SAgovnews)
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Dr. Michael Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), has commended the exceptional work of BMA Border Guards following the arrest of a suspect found in possession of 34 passports at the Lebombo Port of Entry to Mozambique. The arrest, made during an operation on Monday, highlights the effectiveness of the BMA's vigilance at the border.

During a routine inspection, the Border Guards discovered 34 passports along with banknotes in the suspect’s possession. Out of the 34 passports, 32 were identified as belonging to Mozambican nationals, and two belonged to Angolan nationals. A case of possession of suspected stolen property has been opened, and further investigations are underway to trace the origins of the passports.

Commissioner Masiapato praised the diligence and alertness of the BMA Border Guards, stating that this successful apprehension sends a clear message to those facilitating illegal movements and undermining border control systems. "We will continue to charge them criminally with aiding and abetting, as prescribed by the Immigration Act," Masiapato asserted.

He emphasized that the Border Guards' attention to detail and dedication to safeguarding the nation’s ports of entry are critical in the ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities and root out corruption within border law enforcement.

"We are proud of their contribution to maintaining the integrity of our nation's ports of entry," Masiapato added.

The Border Management Authority remains committed to securing all 71 ports of entry across the country, working closely with law enforcement agencies to prevent and combat cross-border crimes, ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.

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