Kosi Bay Border Post, 26 June 2025 - KwaZulu-Natal Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli, in his capacity as the Executive Authority for the Department of Community Safety and Liaison, was joined by the MEC for Agriculture and Rural Development Honourable Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa, while leading a high-level delegation on a critical oversight visit to the Kosi Bay Border Post, a key point of entry between South Africa and Mozambique.

The inspection, which included visits to Border Gates 6 and 8, was conducted in collaboration with the Border Management Authority (BMA), alongside SAPS, SANDF, and various law enforcement agencies tasked with securing the province’s northern frontier.

Strengthening Border Security and Combating Cross-Border Crime

The border zone of uMhlabuyalingana is one of the most vulnerable regions in the province, historically plagued by vehicle hijackings, cross-border smuggling, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and the illegal movement of goods and persons.

“Kosi Bay remains a key point of vulnerability for criminal syndicates operating across the border. As the Government of Provincial Unity, we are taking bold steps to enhance integrated border management and improve inter-agency coordination,” said Premier Ntuli.

During the inspection, Premier Ntuli and MEC KaMadlopha Mthethwa held direct engagements with frontline officers, including SAPS, SANDF troops, and BMA officials. The team evaluated existing infrastructure, patrol operations, surveillance systems, and identified areas requiring urgent attention.

MEC Thembeni kaMadlopha-Mthethwa participated in the visit in her capacity as District Champion for uMkhanyakude District Municipality. She reiterated the province’s support for community-led crime prevention initiatives and called for improved collaboration across all levels of government.

“Cross-border crime not only threatens community safety, but also undermines economic development and regional cooperation. This visit sends a clear message: KwaZulu-Natal will not be a safe haven for criminal operations,” said MEC KaMadlopha-Mthethwa.

The delegation acknowledged the tireless work of local community safety structures, many of whom operate under difficult conditions to protect their communities from criminal syndicates.

“These community structures are heroes. They risk their lives to safeguard others, and it is our responsibility to support and empower them,” Premier Ntuli affirmed.

Advancing Surveillance Through Technology

In a major boost for operational capacity, Premier Ntuli announced that uMhlabuyalingana Local Municipality Mayor T Khumalo had officially handed over a surveillance drone to be used by the Border Management Authority, SAPS, and community crime-fighting forums.

“This drone will significantly enhance aerial patrol capabilities and allow for real-time monitoring of vulnerable border zones,” said Premier Ntuli.

The use of drone technology is part of a broader shift toward smart policing and digital tools to counter the scale and sophistication of cross-border criminal networks.

Community Partnership and Cross-Border Collaboration

Premier Ntuli also emphasised the importance of working hand-in-hand with local residents, traditional leaders, and neighbouring countries to maintain secure and stable border communities.

“This is not just about policing—it’s about governance. It’s about restoring order, protecting livelihoods, and ensuring that no community is left to fight crime alone,” he said.

The province reaffirmed its commitment to cross-border cooperation with Mozambican authorities, with the goal of dismantling syndicates that exploit porous borders for illegal gain.

Part of the Provincial Safety Turnaround Strategy

The Kosi Bay inspection forms part of the provincial government’s Safety Turnaround Strategy—a multi-sectoral approach to tackling crime hotspots, enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement, and improving coordination between government entities in high-risk areas.

Through these interventions, KwaZulu-Natal aims to transform its border zones into secure corridors for legal trade, economic growth, and community safety.

“Our priority is clear—border security is not optional. It is fundamental to creating a safer, more prosperous KwaZulu-Natal,” concluded Premier Ntuli.

KwaZulu-Natal continues to prioritise border integrity, law enforcement innovation, and community partnerships as essential pillars in the fight against organised crime. With bold leadership, collaborative action, and the deployment of advanced technology, the province is forging a safer path forward for all its residents.