Extensive port-based interjurisdictional discussions between South Africa and its six neighbouring countries have reduced illegal migration during the just-ended Easter holidays.

South Africa engaged Lesotho, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, eSwatini, and Botswana before the holidays with the view of maintaining streamlined border processes.

The Chief Executive Officer of South Africa's Border Management Authority, Michael Masiapato, told journalists that the reduction in the intercepted illegal crossings into South Africa can be attributed to enhanced collaboration between neighbours.

"The total number of interceptions reflects a decrease when compared to the 6,253 recorded during the 2025 Easter period. This represents a reduction of approximately 24% and can be attributed to the deterrent effect of enhanced enforcement measures."

Masiapato said all travellers intercepted without documents were fingerprinted, declared undesirable for five years and deported to their respective countries in accordance with South Africa's Immigration Act.

As in the previous period, the majority of intercepted individuals were Basotho nationals, followed by Mozambicans, Zimbabweans, Swati nationals, Malawians and Ethiopians.