By Zim GBC News | South African Correspondent
HAMMANSKRAAL, South Africa – A bus carrying 53 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals was intercepted by South African authorities early this morning in Hammanskraal, near Pretoria. The vehicle, en route to Pretoria, was found transporting passengers without valid legal documents, leading to the arrest of 19 adults, while the remaining 34—including 17 women, 1 man, and 16 children—were reportedly deported back to Zimbabwe.
According to law enforcement officials, the bus was stopped during a routine traffic check when it became apparent that none of the passengers had proper immigration papers.
“The bus was overloaded, and upon inspection, we established that all occupants were Zimbabwean nationals without valid permits,” said Captain Thabo Mbele of the Hammanskraal SAPS.
“Nineteen adults are currently detained pending verification of their status, while the rest have been processed for immediate deportation.”
Women and Children Among the Deported
Sources indicate that the group included vulnerable individuals, with 16 minors and 17 women among those sent back to Zimbabwe. Some passengers claimed they were seeking better opportunities in South Africa due to economic hardships back home.
“Life is tough in Zimbabwe—no jobs, no money. We took the risk hoping for a better future,” said one woman (name withheld) before being escorted onto a deportation vehicle.
Ongoing Crackdown on Undocumented Migration
This incident highlights the persistent challenges of irregular migration between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Authorities have intensified border checks and transport interceptions in recent months, leading to multiple arrests and deportations.
“We urge travelers to ensure they have proper documentation before crossing borders to avoid such situations,” said Immigration Official Patricia Khumalo.
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