South Africa’s Border Management Authority (BMA) has outlined new detail on the intelligence-led cargo targeting and technology being used at ports of entry, following last week’s drug seizure at Beitbridge.
Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, BMA commissioner Michael Masiapato said the authority was strengthening its operational footprint through integrated law-enforcement collaboration, advanced technology and intelligence coordination mechanisms, including the National Border Targeting Centre.
The briefing followed an intelligence-driven operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry that led to the interception of 713kg of methaqualone, commonly used in the manufacture of mandrax.
“The BMA cannot win this fight alone. The complexity of transnational organised crime requires a unified front that brings together border law enforcement, customs authorities, policing structures and security and intelligence services working as one system of national defence,” he said.
The authority is rolling out advanced surveillance systems, drones, mobile scanners and intelligence coordination mechanisms as part of efforts to secure South Africa’s ports of entry, Masiapato said. “We continue to strengthen our operational footprint through various interventions, integrated law enforcement collaboration, and the deployment of advanced technology aimed at securing South Africa’s ports of entry.”
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the seizure was not a matter of “luck” but a result of sustained reforms. “This was not a coincidence. It is the product of sustained reforms that are steadily rebuilding the capability of the South African state to secure our borders and restore the rule of law.”
“This singular breakthrough vividly demonstrates that our investments into intelligence-driven work, modern technology, digital transformation and building a new organisational culture exemplified by BMA personnel are improving the security environment at our ports of entry,” he said.
The BMA urged the public to report suspicious activities via 0800 122 9 019 or www.bma.gov.za.
© Now Media. This content, including images, is protected by copyright and may not be copied, reused, adapted or republished without permission. If you would like to discuss content-sharing or cooperation opportunities, please contact: editor@freightnews.co.za.
