By Staff Reporter
LEBOMBO – A routine border crossing turned into a life-changing moment when a 29-year-old Mozambican woman went into labour at the Lebombo Port of Entry on the busy morning of December 30, 2025.
Marluz Albino Tovela was travelling back to her home country, Mozambique, en route to Inhambane, when she suddenly went into labour while attempting to cross the border.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane said members of the Buzaphi Team on duty immediately recognised that Tovela was in distress and required urgent assistance.
Although not medically equipped for childbirth, the officials stepped away from their normal duties to provide emergency help.
“Sergeant Tshidi Mokoena and Constable Sandiso Nyathi of the South African Police Service, together with Jabu Nkuna from the South African Revenue Service, went beyond the call of duty and assisted as midwives during the delivery,” said Ndubane.
The trio successfully helped Tovela deliver a healthy baby boy, who has since been affectionately nicknamed ‘Baby SAPS and Customs’.
Following the delivery, both mother and child were reported to be in good health. An ambulance was immediately summoned, and they were transported to Tonga Hospital for further medical observation and postnatal care.
The Mpumalanga provincial police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the officials for their exceptional conduct, saying the incident highlighted the human side of policing.
“Policing is not only about fighting crime, but also about serving communities with care, compassion and humanity when the need arises,” said Mkhwanazi, commending the officials for their dedication and commitment.
