The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has intensified patrols along sensitive sections of the border with Mozambique and Eswatini, uncovering a series of illicit activities. Troops from 5 South African Infantry (SAI) Battalion have played a crucial role in these efforts, revealing persistent security threats and highlighting the ongoing challenge of smuggling and illegal border crossings.
Staff Sargent Joseph Tokologo Tshepiso Matlapeng reported a number of notable successes were recorded this month. For example, on 5 June SANDF patrols in the Sugarcane area discovered a white Toyota Hilux 2.8 GD6 Double Cab abandoned in a field. The vehicle, valued at approximately R500 000, was unoccupied, raising suspicions of its involvement in cross-border smuggling or theft. The discovery was promptly reported to the Military Police for further investigation.
Later the same day, intelligence-led patrols intercepted two suspicious vehicles traveling from Naas towards Mananga. One, a white Toyota Hilux GD6, attempted to evade the patrol, while the other, a white Mahindra, was stopped and its driver detained. Both vehicles had tampered registration plates, indicating possible links to organised crime.
On 7 June, soldiers on foot patrol between Sun 2 and Sugarcane encountered three individuals attempting to cross into Mozambique illegally. Nearby, they found a tampered white Toyota Hilux 2.4 GD6, valued at R950 000, believed to be used in smuggling operations.
The following day, based on intelligence from Tonga SAPS, the SANDF intercepted a Toyota Fortuner near Naas. The driver abandoned the vehicle and fled, but the vehicle, valued at R800 000, was seized for further investigation.
The pattern of abandoned and tampered vehicles points to coordinated efforts by criminal syndicates to smuggle goods, facilitate illegal crossings, and traffic stolen vehicles. The high value of the recovered vehicles underscores the scale and sophistication of these operations, Matlapeng stated.
To address these persistent threats, authorities recommend intensifying investigations into known crossing points to dismantle criminal networks; increasing patrol frequency and deploying advanced technologies such as drones for real-time surveillance; strengthening collaboration with border security agencies to improve interception and response times.
“The incidents recorded in June 2025 serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges along South Africa’s borders. They highlight the importance of sustained patrol efforts, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency collaboration in combating border-related crimes. The proactive measures undertaken by the South African National Defence Force are vital in protecting national sovereignty, preventing illegal crossings, and maintaining regional stability. These operations exemplify the unwavering commitment of the South African National Defence Force to securing South Africa’s borders and safeguarding its citizens from illicit activities,” Matlapeng concluded.
Last month, 5 SAI recorded other successes on border patrol, including seizing abandoned contraband and recovering illegal firearms and stolen vehicles. A coal smuggling network was also interdicted.
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