Ntokozo Khumalo23 December 2024 | 4:15

BMA processes nearly 17,000 travellers at Lebombo border post

The country is on on edge ahead of the announcement of election results. 

BMA processes nearly 17,000 travellers at Lebombo border post

South African authorities shut the Lebombo border post with Mozambique on 7 November 2024 as unrest continued in that country. Picture: Jacques Nelles/EWN

JOHANNESBURG - South Africa's Border Management Authority (BMA) said that around 17,000 travellers were processed at the Lebombo border with Mozambique on Sunday.

The country is on edge ahead of the announcement of election results. 

The country's constitutional council has been dealing with a recount and verification process after opposition supporters rejected the outcome of the vote held in October. 

Dozens of people were killed during protests, where rights groups have accused police of being heavyhanded. 

READ: Mozambique council to rule on election results Monday

The demonstrations also led to the closure of the Lebombo border, leaving truck drivers stranded. 

BMA commissioner, Michael Masiapato says they've seen more people crossing into Mozambique ahead of Christmas.

"Around 17,000 of those were fairly exiting South Africa going into Mozambique. And we had around just below 8,000 that were coming into South Africa from Mozambique. What we have observed is that those were coming into Komatipoort to buy things and still be processed out..." said Masiapato.