The government is deploying four advanced drones and 40 body-worn cameras to key entry points to prevent illegal crossings.

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, made the announcement at a media briefing in Pretoria this Thursday. He explained that this move forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen border security during the busy holiday period, which sees an increase in travel across SA’s borders.

Schreiber shared that the use of drones for border security was first trialled over the December holidays, where it showed positive results. Building on this success, the government is now expanding the use of this technology for Easter.

The drones, which are fitted with state-of-the-art thermal vision and motion detection capabilities, are set to patrol 15 sectors along the borders. They can immediately take to the air if any suspicious activity is detected, making them a key part of the country’s security measures.

"These drones are more than just eyes in the sky, they have thermal vision, so anyone trying to hide behind trees or bushes will still be spotted. Technology picks up body heat, which makes it almost impossible to evade detection,”Schreiber explained. "With long range zoom lenses, they can even detect activity from over a mile away, providing us with a clear view of any potential threats."

In addition to the four drones, the BMA will also deploy five extra units in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. These drones, with their ability to record and monitor movement, are expected to provide an added layer of security to the country’s border control efforts.

This technology-driven approach is seen as a major step forward in SA’s fight against illegal immigration and ensuring the safety of both citizens and visitors. As the Easter season draws near, the government is confident that these advanced measures will play a crucial role in maintaining order at the country’s borders.

--ChannelAfrica--