South Africa is stepping up security at its ports of entry with new technology-driven measures, including the deployment of drones and traceable immigration stamps the Border Management Authority (BMA) BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato made the announcement and said the initiatives are aimed at modernising border law enforcement and curbing cross-border crimes such as illegal migration, human trafficking, and smuggling. Eight border guards have undergone drone pilot training, with six graduating.
“To increase our drone operation capacity, we plan to send more border guards for training as we enhance surveillance, particularly in vulnerable segments of the borderline,” Masiapato said. The drones will provide real-time monitoring to improve visibility and rapid response.
Strengthening national security
In a parallel move to combat corruption, the BMA has introduced uniquely numbered security stamps for immigration officers, enabling traceability if a stamp is linked to unlawful facilitation of entry. The authority has also partnered with the South African Reserve Bank to train border personnel in counterfeit detection and currency handling.
“This initiative is part of our broader commitment to strengthening national security and ensuring the integrity of border control processes,” Masiapato added.
According to first-quarter figures for the 2025/2026 financial year, the BMA processed 8.58 million passengers entering and leaving South Africa. During the same period, 9,954 people attempting illegal entry were intercepted and deported. The enhanced measures come as South Africa seeks to secure its borders against evolving threats while streamlining lawful cross-border movement.