Border barrier project to begin this week

THE erection of concrete barriers between the Mozambique and South African border is set to begin this week in an attempt to curb cross-border crimes.

Last week, Jozini residents resorted to violent protests complaining of numerous house burglaries and vehicle theft, apparently involving four police officers who they accused of being part of a smuggling ring moving goods across the border.

In October last year a SAPS report submitted to the KZN Legislature’s transport portfolio committee, revealed that between April and September no fewer than 104 stolen vehicles were taken across the Mozambique border from uMkhanyakude.

According to the report, an average of 20 stolen vehicles are moved across the Mozambique border every month, with the Toyota Hilux being the most popular vehicle stolen, followed by the Ford Ranger.

The erection of barriers at New Jersey has been on the Department of Transport’s cards since 2016, but was halted owing to financial challenges and problems with the contractors.

A statement by MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Bheki Ntuli, stated that following a meeting convened by KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala last week, all challenges were addressed and the project is expected to resume today (Monday).

‘Ntuli will lead a highlevel team that will visit the site to assess progress of the installation of the barriers.’

Ntuli called on law enforcement agencies to step up enforcement operations in Jozini to curb cross-border crime following the violent protest action.