Mpumalanga premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane has called for law enforcement agencies in the Lebombo border to Mozambique to do their job and stop criminality including human trafficking.
Mtshweni-Tsipane said she was aware of allegations of bribery allowing people to cross the border, adding that people who are involved in crime should be exposed and arrested.
Mtshweni-Tsipane, who was accompanied by community safety, security and liaisons MEC Gabisile Shabalala, said she was satisfied with the level of compliance with the Covid-19 regulations as people are tested at the border.
“We are pleased at the way of dealing with the traffic congestion here, every officer is ready and doing their job. We are trying to do away with the flow of illicit goods into SA. We are aware of the allegations that there are corrupt officials here and we are warning people that we will deal with that, arrest, prosecute and fire those who are aiding criminals,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
Two weeks ago police at the border intercepted a Ford Ranger bakkie that was reported stolen in Sandton, Gauteng, after a car tracking company saw it approaching the border.
The bakkie was loaded in a truck and covered with grass brooms. According to the Mpumalanga police the bakkie was reported missing on November 30.
Officials at the border confirmed that bribery made it easy for illegal items to cross the border.
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