South Africa is implementing a strategic initiative to counter cross-border vehicle theft, marked by the construction of a concrete barrier in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
The wall aims to hinder the unauthorized export of stolen vehicles into neighboring Mozambique.
The KwaZulu-Natal region, particularly the coastal district of Umkhanyakude, has seen an upsurge in cross-border criminal activities, including auto theft, with the region being near Mozambique’s Ponta do Ouro.
As a response to these criminal activities, new measures are being introduced to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with local communities.
Nomusa Dube-Ncube, the province governor, highlighted the importance of community engagement in tackling these issues.
The residents are being encouraged to report any suspicious vehicles to the authorities.
The intention is to promote collective responsibility and vigilance among community members, contributing to a decline in auto thefts.
Since the start of the year, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has increased resources in the northern KwaZulu-Natal area, as part of an intensive drive against cross-border crime.
This initiative involves deploying over 100 operational resources to enhance security in the region.
Mozambicans form a significant part of South Africa’s workforce, especially in sectors such as mining, agriculture, public transportation, and informal trade.
This demographic factor, coupled with the economic opportunities in the country, plays a role in the complex issue of cross-border crime.