News / National
Kombi driver arrested for smuggling Zimbabwean children into SA
10 Dec 2024 at 17:20hrs | Views
The Border Management Authority (BMA) of South Africa apprehended a minibus taxi driver accused of attempting to smuggle undocumented Zimbabwean children through the Beitbridge port of entry.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi confirmed the arrest on Monday, stating that the driver was transporting 25 undocumented foreign nationals, including 20 children aged between 5 and 14 years.
The children were reportedly being transported under unsafe and inhumane conditions.
"The vehicle used was impounded. The driver has been charged and is in police custody, and a conveyance fine of R375,000 has been issued in accordance with the Immigration Act," Mogotsi said.
In line with established protocols, the children were handed over to Zimbabwean child welfare authorities to ensure their safety while investigations continue.
Jane Thupana, the acting commissioner of the BMA, emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring border security.
"The trafficking and smuggling of people undermines human dignity and border security. The BMA remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard South Africa's ports of entry and protect those at risk," Thupana stated.
She further noted the BMA's commitment to collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by the BMA to combat human trafficking and illegal immigration, ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals at South Africa's borders.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi confirmed the arrest on Monday, stating that the driver was transporting 25 undocumented foreign nationals, including 20 children aged between 5 and 14 years.
The children were reportedly being transported under unsafe and inhumane conditions.
"The vehicle used was impounded. The driver has been charged and is in police custody, and a conveyance fine of R375,000 has been issued in accordance with the Immigration Act," Mogotsi said.
Jane Thupana, the acting commissioner of the BMA, emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring border security.
"The trafficking and smuggling of people undermines human dignity and border security. The BMA remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard South Africa's ports of entry and protect those at risk," Thupana stated.
She further noted the BMA's commitment to collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal networks exploiting vulnerable individuals, particularly children.
The arrest highlights ongoing efforts by the BMA to combat human trafficking and illegal immigration, ensuring the protection of vulnerable individuals at South Africa's borders.
Source - pindula