South Africa is set to strengthen its border security with the deployment of cutting-edge technology at its ports of entry during the Easter long weekend.

Four advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, and 40 body-worn cameras will be used for the first time to aid in border management and law enforcement.

The drones are equipped with some of the most advanced night vision cameras globally, including thermal detection technology. These AI-powered devices can detect heat sources, track moving people or vehicles, and operate at speeds of up to 43 km/h.

They are capable of functioning in remote rural areas without GPS access, and even underground, providing unprecedented surveillance capabilities.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, Home Affairs Minister Dr. Leon Schreiber highlighted the significance of this technological leap in enhancing South Africa’s border security.

“Data shows that when we first trialled the use of drones over the festive season, the number of attempted illegal crossings that were successfully prevented increased by 215%,” Schreiber said, emphasizing the effectiveness of the drones in controlling illegal border activities.

This deployment marks a major step forward for the Border Management Authority (BMA), which will now utilize the technology on a full-time basis to enhance border security.

“Our message to would-be illegal immigrants and smugglers is clear. We are now watching the borderline during the day, we are watching at night, we can see your body heat wherever you try to hide, and we will catch you,” Schreiber added.

“As we roll out more and more cutting-edge technology, there are fewer and fewer places to hide for criminals who undermine our national security.”

In addition to the drones, the body-worn cameras will be issued to officials at ports of entry. These cameras will monitor and deter corruption while also tracking the efficiency of the officers.

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The footage captured will be linked to a dedicated Digital Evidence Management System to ensure that it is admissible in court, bolstering the likelihood of successful convictions.

BMA Commissioner Dr. Micheal Masiapato also addressed the media, noting that the 2025 Easter Operation builds on the success of the 2024/25 Festive Season Plan. During that period, over 5 million travellers were processed across 71 ports of entry.

“This plan builds on the successes and lessons learned from our previous operations, ensuring the advancement of robust mechanisms for safe and secure travel,” Masiapato said, highlighting the ongoing improvements in operational efficiency.

The BMA has been preparing for the increased flow of people and goods during the Easter period, which traditionally sees heightened movement due to holidays, cultural observances, and events such as the Zion Christian Church gathering in Limpopo.

This year, the BMA’s Easter Operational Plan will run from April 15 to 24, with intensified border operations aimed at maintaining security during this busy period.

“The increase in festive season movements prompted the BMA to officially begin with the Easter Planning Phase on February 1, 2025, which will culminate in a heightened execution phase during the Easter period,” Masiapato explained.

“We are here to serve the citizens of the country to deter any illegality at our ports of entry and border law enforcement area without fear or favour.”

As part of the initiative, the BMA is also training eight officers to become expert drone pilots, ensuring that the technology is deployed efficiently across the country’s ports.