More than 50 officials have been dismissed from the Border Management Authority (BMA) over alleged corrupt activities, including facilitating illegal entry into South Africa and selling visa extensions.
Speaking to VOC News, Wayne Duvanage, CEO of the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), welcomed the move but said the problem runs deeper.
“This is a positive first step, but it only scratches the surface. Corruption in border management has been systemic for years,” Duvanage said.
BMA Commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato confirmed that the dismissals form part of a targeted anti-corruption operation at the Maseru Bridge port, one of several interventions this year aimed at monitoring and removing officials involved in fraudulent activities.
The initiative is part of the Border Management and Immigration Anti-Corruption Forum, chaired by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU).
Duvanage explained that some officials exploit their positions to make money, often working with “facilitators” to allow illegal entry or extend visas unlawfully.
“The rules are bent, and authorities in these positions enrich themselves at the expense of ordinary citizens. This affects service delivery, public confidence, and even our liberties,” he said.
The BMA has introduced technology, including body cameras, to monitor interactions and curb abuse.
While Masiapato stressed that corruption involves only a small fraction of the 2,600-strong workforce, Duvanage urged authorities to pursue criminal charges against officials found guilty and to strengthen preventative measures.
“This should be the start of a rolling action. Those found guilty must face the law, and steps must be taken to close all avenues of corruption at our borders,” he said.
Photo: X/ @TheBMA_SA
