BMA processes over 5 million travelers during festive season

The Border Management Authority (BMA) revealed on Sunday that it efficiently processed over five million travelers across South African borders during the festive period from 6 December 2023, to 18 January 2024.

Commissioner of the BMA, Mike Masiapato, highlighted the significant increase in the movement of people and goods during the 2023/2024 festive season.

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“The 2023/2024 festive season was a remarkable time where a noticeable increase in the movement of persons and goods entering and exiting the Republic of South Africa was experienced,” said Masiapato.

One-million travelers surge, yet still lags pre-COVID levels

The data showcased a noteworthy one-million increase in travelers compared to the previous year. However, it still remains one million less than the pre-COVID-19 average.

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During this period, private vehicles, mini-bus taxis, buses, and trucks constituted the various modes of transportation, with 216 594, 21 502, 6443, and 55 765 travelers, respectively.

Over 13 050 aircraft were processed at international airports, and approximately 709 vessels were handled at seaports, with 407 undergoing crew changes using the off-port limit mechanism.

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ORTIA served the highest number of travelers at around 993 759. Followed by Lebombo and Beitbridge land ports with 755 066 and 745 563 visitors. Respectively, each recording an increase in volume compared to the previous festive period.

Masiapato explained, “As you may recall, we increased our human resource capacity and the operating hours in some selected ports of entry which do not operate on a 24-hour basis.”

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BMA cracks down on illegitimate entry

The BMA, responsible for managing legitimate movement, also dealt with individuals attempting illegitimate entry. Around 15 924 people were detected without requisite documentation, leading to fingerprinting, declaration as undesirable, and a five-year ban. The majority of interceptions occurred at the Lebombo land port of entry.

Furthermore, the agency imposed 98 administrative fines, totaling R3 540 000, on conveyancers, particularly bus companies, for transporting illegal migrants. Approximately R9.8 million in outstanding fines was collected from 25 bus companies.

Masiapato emphasised the commitment to requiring valid passports from all travelers. When procuring cross-border tickets and entering buses on travel days.

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