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Research Paper | Humanities | South Africa | Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023 | Rating: 5 / 10
The Complexity of Controlling Illegal Border Crossers from Mozambique, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe: A Reflection of South Africa's Porous Borders
T L Malatji
Abstract: This study investigates the challenges South Africa faces in controlling illegal border crossings from neighboring countries, with a focus on Mozambique, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe. Through interviews with SARS and SAPS officials, the study reveals that the porosity of South Africa's borders and lack of capacity in law enforcement agencies contribute to the issue. The paper also discusses the push and pulls factors of migration, highlighting the need for effective border management strategies. The majority of them are those who are doing business in South Africa, some are job seekers, while others are those looking for opportunities to steal and get involved in crime. They cross through Beitbridge, Lebombo border and Oshoek, however, the majority go through the bushes. This qualitative study was conducted in Mpumalanga and Limpopo province. One - on - one interviews were conducted with officials from SARS and SAPS. The results of this study reveal that the borders are open to everyone who enters the country illegally. In addition, it is revealed that one of the contributing factors to the lack of control is the lack of capacity in the law enforcement agency.
Keywords: South Africa, Border Control, Illegal Immigrants, Migration, Law Enforcement, SARS, SAPS, Porous Borders, Push and Pull Factors
Edition: Volume 12 Issue 6, June 2023,
Pages: 2748 - 2754