Due to security incidents across the border in Mozambique and in the interest of public safety, the Lebombo port of entry has been temporarily closed until further notice.
This as the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, has received reports of vehicles being torched on the Mozambican side of the port in post-election violence.
“Due to these security incidents and in the interest of public safety, the port has been temporarily closed until further notice. This decision was made to ensure the safety of all cross-border transporters, travellers, traders and officials operating at the port.
“The BMA is coordinating closely with Mozambican authorities and South African law enforcement agencies to monitor the situation and work towards reopening the port as soon as it is safe to do so,” said the BMA in a statement on Tuesday night.
The Commissioner advised all stakeholders to suspend travel through the Lebombo port until further notice.
“Alternative routes to Mozambique must be used where feasible at the moment until the situation has stabilised,” Masiapato said.
He said South African officials are on the ground providing assistance to seven officials from the Mozambican side who have requested refuge on the South African side for safety and protection.
“The BMA and its counterparts are working urgently to address the situation, and we are appreciating the cooperation we are receiving at the moment,” he said.
The BMA and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will continue to provide updates through official channels and notify stakeholders as soon as the port is deemed safe for reopening.
Violent protests erupted in Maputo after Mozambique’s election results were announced on 24 October. Ruling party Frelimo was re-elected, with its candidate Daniel Chapo obtaining 71% of the vote, but this is disputed by the opposition.
Protests spread to the border on Tuesday evening, with protestors storming the port of entry, setting alight buildings, including security guard houses, as well as vehicles belonging to officials.
The opposition has called for a nationwide protest on Thursday 7 November. At least a dozen people have been killed by security forces, who have been using tear gas and live ammunition.