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South Africa’s Border Agency Launches Two-Day Anti-Corruption Drive After Firing Over 50 Officials

Officials now turn to body cameras, prosecutions, recruitment to tighten oversight at ports of entry.

Overview

  • The Border Management Authority began a two-day campaign to deter graft at ports of entry and reinforce border integrity.
  • Investigations uncovered fraudulent passport stamping, illegal stay extensions and a “selling days” scheme that traded extra time for a fee.
  • More than 50 officials have been dismissed since 2023, with 38 additional staff now facing disciplinary proceedings that could lead to further removals.
  • Prosecutors have brought several suspects to court near Musina (Beitbridge), Ladybrand (Maseru Bridge) and Komatipoort (Lebombo).
  • The crackdown is backed by an SIU-led anti-corruption forum, tip-offs via the Operation Itebise hotline, body-camera deployment, and a R900 million plan to recruit about 700 staff as the BMA operates at roughly 25% capacity.