The Lebombo port of entry has been temporarily closed due to safety concerns on the Mozambican side.
This comes after reports of vehicles being torched at Ressano Garcia during protests linked to disputed election results.
The commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Michael Masiapato, said the decision was made to ensure the safety of all cross-border transporters, travellers, traders and officials operating at the port.
“We advise all stakeholders to suspend travel through Lebombo port until further notice. Alternative routes to Mozambique must be used where feasible until the situation has stabilised,” he said.
“South African officials are on the ground assisting with seven officials from the Mozambican side having requested refuge on the SA side for safety and protection. The BMA and its counterparts are working urgently to address the situation, and we appreciate the cooperation we are receiving.”
Masiapato said the BMA will notify stakeholders as soon as the port is considered safe to reopen.
Fronteira do Ressano Garcia bloqueada por camionistas.
— miss Mussá 🇲🇿 (@Kace_Layne) November 4, 2024
Ninguém entra, ninguém sai pic.twitter.com/4slYhK5vu7
Ressano Garcia border 📍between #Mozambique and South Africa is on fire after an immigration officer “allegedly” shot a civilian. As retaliation, population is setting fire.
— Cídia Chissungo (@Cidiachissungo) November 5, 2024
Will update on this#FreeMozambique #MozambiqueElections pic.twitter.com/l9rkcGrTkU
Night 2 of the “pots and pans” protest in Maputo, Mozambique. Mozambicans are finding creative ways to show their discontent towards the government, election irregularities, police brutality, etc etc… pic.twitter.com/nvzsE2uHcn
— Zenaida Machado (@zenaidamz) November 5, 2024
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