South Africa Deploys Drones, Traceable Stamps to Strengthen Border Security

South Africa is significantly enhancing its border security by deploying advanced technologies such as surveillance drones and newly designed, traceable immigration stamps. The Border Management Authority (BMA) has trained border guards to operate drones, aiming to improve surveillance and detect cross-border crimes including illegal immigration, human trafficking, and smuggling. The BMA has introduced uniquely numbered security stamps for immigration officers to increase accountability and combat counterfeit stamps, a response to a recent rise in forgery. Collaboration with the South African Reserve Bank has enabled the training of border guards in detecting counterfeit currency, further strengthening border integrity. Between April and June 2025, the agency processed over 8.5 million passengers and deported nearly 10,000 individuals attempting illegal entry, underscoring the urgency of these reforms. These measures collectively reflect the BMA’s commitment to modernizing border law enforcement and safeguarding national security.