More than 20 minors, ranging in age from five to 17, were intercepted by the Border Management Authority (BMA) and the South African National Defence Force near the Limpopo River, authorities said.
Minors Intercepted Near Beitbridge Border
The group was found in the vicinity of the Beitbridge border fence and is believed to have been traveling from South Africa to Zimbabwe. Ten adults were with the children, but preliminary verification confirmed only one adult is the parent of one of the minors.
According to BMA commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato, the remaining minors were traveling without parental supervision or lawful guardianship. The interception has raised concerns regarding child protection, potential exploitation, and compliance with immigration and child welfare legislation.
All individuals are currently under the care of relevant authorities, and processes are underway to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the minors in accordance with South African laws and international child protection protocols.
The BMA is working with the police, the department of social development, and other stakeholders to verify the minors’ identities, establish the circumstances surrounding their movement, and determine appropriate interventions.
Masiapato stated that the authority has a zero-tolerance approach to the unlawful movement of children across South Africa’s borders. The protection of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, remains a priority for the BMA, and joint operations with security partners will be intensified to prevent exploitation and safeguard the integrity of the borders.
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