Border Management Authority (BMA) officials arrested two Mozambican nationals at Kosi Bay after they allegedly tried to bribe officers during a border stop and were found with dozens of fraudulent passports.

On Thursday, 18 December 2025, at about 17:00, BMA law enforcement officers intercepted a silver Volvo S40 entering South Africa from Mozambique.

A search of the vehicle uncovered forty-six fraudulently stamped Mozambican passports concealed under a mat in the boot.

Officers also seized R34 890 in cash, believed to be proceeds of illegal activity.

Suspects resist arrest

BMA commissioner Dr Michael Masiapato said the two men attempted to use the cash to avoid arrest.

“The suspects attempted to bribe BMA officials with the same amount of cash in an effort to evade arrest. When the bribery attempt failed, the suspects resisted arrest,” Masiapato said.

“As a result, BMA officials acted decisively and brought the situation under control. Both suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with fraud, resisting arrest and bribery.”

BMA enforces zero tolerance for corruption

Masiapato said the incident reflects a zero-tolerance approach to corruption and the facilitation of transnational organised crime.

“This interception reflects the BMA’s zero tolerance on corruption and the facilitation of transnational organised crime,” he said.

The commissioner said he is overseeing operations on the ground as the BMA intensifies enforcement at Ports of Entry and along vulnerable sections of the borderline.

He added that the processing of people and goods continues smoothly across the country, despite increased movements ahead of the festive season.