48 undocumented migrants intercepted at Limpopo checkpoint
· The South African
Law enforcement officers intercepted 48 undocumented migrants at the Polokwane Traffic Control Centre in Limpopo after stopping two minibuses travelling from Zimbabwe to Gauteng on Friday.
Officials found that only two of the 50 passengers had valid passports, prompting them to immediately initiate immigration processes on site.
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Routine stop uncovers violations and undocumented migrants
Officials pulled the vehicles over during a routine roadblock and quickly uncovered the scale of the violations as they began checking passengers’ documents.
Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety spokesperson Mashudu Mabata said officers found widespread non-compliance in both vehicles.
“In the first minibus, which was carrying 27 passengers, only one person had a valid passport. The second vehicle had 23 passengers, and again, just one had proper documentation,” Mabata said.
He said they immediately called in immigration officials.
“The immigration team was immediately activated and is currently processing the 48 individuals found to be in the country illegally. In line with deportation procedures,” he said.
Minibuses impounded
Authorities also impounded both vehicles for allegedly breaching their operating licence conditions.
Mabata said the department would not overlook such violations, especially where passenger safety and legal compliance are concerned.
Officials will deport the group through formal channels.
“The individuals will be escorted to the Beitbridge border post as part of a lawful deportation process,” Mabata said.
Crackdown to continue
The Department of Transport and Community Safety said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to tighten enforcement on the roads.
“We will continue working with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of commuters. Enforce immigration laws and uphold road safety standards,” Mabata said.