South African authorities on Saturday placed multiple buses under quarantine after they arrived from Zimbabwe, carrying more than 440 children amid allegations of human trafficking, according to the South African Border Management Authority (BMA).
At a Sunday press briefing, BMA Commissioner Michael Masiapato reported that authorities stopped and searched about 42 buses attempting to cross into South Africa. He stated that approximately 443 children under eight years old were found on these vehicles without any parent or guardian present, implying they were unaccompanied for transfer. The commissioner noted that the children were allegedly being smuggled into the country in violation of immigration rules and border procedures. The buses were intercepted at the Beitbridge border post late on the preceding night, he added.
Officials stated that the children were removed from the buses and discussions were held with Zimbabwean authorities before returning the group to Zimbabwe. No further operational details were disclosed during the briefing.
Masiapato clarified that the operation was a collaborative effort involving the Border Management Authority, the Department of Home Affairs, and the South African Police Service. The joint action underscores ongoing border-security efforts to combat human trafficking and protect unaccompanied minors crossing borders.
Observers emphasized the need for rigorous screening, reliable guardianship, and cross-border cooperation to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in transit. The incident has prompted calls for enhanced monitoring at key border checkpoints and the sharing of information between neighboring countries to prevent future trafficking attempts. The authorities reaffirmed their commitment to thorough investigations and to coordinating with international partners to address gaps in border security and child protection, ensuring that any indications of exploitation are promptly identified and acted upon. Attribution: South African Border Management Authority; Department of Home Affairs; South African Police Service; Zimbabwean authorities.