BMA and SANDF intercepts 20 unsupervised children at Beitbridge border

More than 20 unsupervised children aged five to 17 have been intercepted near the Beitbridge border fence.

The Border Managment Authority (BMA) authorities and the South African Defence Force managed to stop the unlawful movement of the minors.

According to the BMA, the children were on their way from South Africa to Zimbabwe when they were stopped during routine border operations.
 
Authorities said the incident highlights serious child protection and immigration concerns.

Ten adults were with them, but only one was the parent of a child. The rest were travelling without supervision or legal guardianship.
 
BMA spokesperson Mmeme Mogotsi said the interception raises concerns about child protection and breaches of South Africa’s immigration laws.
 
"All individuals have been placed under the care of the relevant authorities, and processes are underway to ensure the safety, well-being, and lawful handling of the minors in line with South African laws and international child protection protocols."