The Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato has applauded the arrest of two immigration specialists at the Beitbridge port of entry by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks).

The arrests on Monday evening followed an ongoing investigation linked to the case of immigration specialist Dorah Ncube, who was arrested last year for fraud and corruption related to the illegally processing of six Malawian nationals at Beitbridge.

According to the BMA, Ncube remains in police custody.

The arrested officials appeared before the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The authority said it has continuously reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on corruption and remains committed to upholding the integrity of South Africa’s border management systems.

“We continue to fully cooperate with law enforcement agencies in their investigations to ensure that those involved in corrupt activities are held accountable.

“The BMA will not tolerate any misconduct that undermines the rule of law and the security of the country. We assure the public that decisive action will be taken against any official found to be involved in unethical practices,” said Masiapato.

The BMA continues to curb corruption within its systems. Currently, it is processing 45 cases that are still to be concluded with transgressions including aiding and abetting as well as illegal processing of travellers and goods.

About 27 officials have been dismissed since the BMA’s inception on 1 April 2023.

Further updates on the arrests of the two officials will be provided as investigations progress.