By Staff Reporter
MUSINA-South African authorities have intercepted and arrested 1,174 people from Zimbabwe who attempted to enter South Africa through illegal border crossings this week.
The arrests were carried out in Limpopo Province on 26 December 2025, with members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), particularly the 1 South African Tank Regiment, playing a central role in the operation. One circulating video shows a large group of people being stopped as they attempted to cross the border unlawfully.
According to officials, this marks the first time such a massive influx of undocumented persons has been recorded during the Christmas Eve and Day of Goodwill period, presenting a new challenge for security forces deployed along the border.
The situation was further complicated by what authorities described as uncharacteristic aggressiveness from some of the individuals involved. During the operation, Rifleman T.M.
Mokoena sustained a stab wound to his forearm while defending himself against an undocumented person who attempted a life-threatening assault. Thanks to his training, Rifleman Mokoena was able to neutralise the threat without using deadly force.
Defence Intelligence Services have since taken over the matter for further investigation. Rifleman Mokoena received immediate medical attention from SANDF medics, who remain on standby for similar incidents.
Authorities confirmed that all 1,174 undocumented persons were handed over to South African Immigration Servicesin good health and without injury.
Colonel Dikgabane Herold Tladi, Officer Commanding Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo, praised the soldiers for their professionalism, restraint and discipline under pressure, and wished Rifleman Mokoena a speedy recovery.
The incident has once again placed the spotlight on border security challenges faced by South Africa, particularly during peak festive periods.
