South Africa is ramping up border control operations with the deployment of four high-tech drones and 40 body-worn cameras at key ports of entry over the Easter weekend.
The unmanned aerial vehicles—equipped with state-of-the-art thermal imaging and night vision—are designed to detect heat signatures, track human and vehicle movement, and operate in areas without GPS, including underground spaces. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 43 kilometres per hour, the drones will support surveillance in remote and high-risk regions.
Starting today, the BMA is surveilling our borderline day and night using advanced drones flying as high as 7 000 meters at over 40km/h, equipped with night-vision, thermal detection and AI, while body cameras clamp down further on corruption. Digital transformation in action! 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/uaHLJyXNeB
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) April 10, 2025Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber announced the rollout at a media briefing on Thursday, describing it as a major leap in securing South Africa’s borders. He said the trial use of drones during the festive season led to a 215% increase in the prevention of illegal border crossings.
I appreciate support from SAPU for the digital transformation process that continues to strengthen the BMA. Technology is the most powerful force multiplier to support BMA officials on the job. We are one team, with one dream: to unlock technology to better serve our country 🇿🇦 https://t.co/w8s4rDYLPU
— Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) April 10, 2025
