BMA cracks down on illicit cigarette operation at Beitbridge

The Border Management Authority (BMA) has cracked down on a cigarette smuggling operation at the Beitbridge Port of Entry through the use of advanced drone surveillance technology.

The crackdown formed part of intensified law enforcement operations under the 2025/2026 Festive Season Security Plan.

The aerial real-time drone footage detected suspicious movement within the border law enforcement near Beitbridge.

This led to the swift response by BMA officers to track and arrest suspects attempting to smuggle illicit cigarettes to the value of R42,797.00.

BMA Commissioner Dr Masiapato has commended the operation, saying that that the deployment of drone technology has significantly enhanced the authority’s ability to detect and disrupt organised smuggling networks.

“This interception demonstrates that the BMA is adapting to increasingly sophisticated criminal methods by leveraging modern surveillance technologies. Despite limited resources, our officers remain resolute and proactive in protecting the country’s borders,” the commissioner adds.