In a momentous step forward to improve border management and security, the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, today unveiled cutting-edge new drone and body worn camera technology to be rolled out by the Border Management Authority (BMA).

In terms of our unwavering commitment to digital transformation, the Minister today launched four advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, and 40 body worn cameras that will be deployed for the first time over the Easter Weekend.

The drones are equipped with some of the most advanced night vision cameras in the world, including thermal detection technology. They are powered by Artificial Intelligence, enabling the devices to recognise and lock onto heat sources, moving people, or vehicles. They can travel at speeds up to 43 kilometres per hour and are capable of operating in remote rural areas, without access to GPS, and even underground. The drones launch within 15 seconds, are durable and waterproof, and capable of operating under all weather conditions.

The BMA is undertaking world-class training to equip eight officers to become expert drone pilots. They will operate the devices on a shift basis, and will move around different ports in the country. Additionally, following a successful operational partnership over the Festive Season, the BMA will again partner with the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform, which will avail five more drones to the BMA during the Easter period.

Minister Schreiber today also launched 40 body worn cameras with the BMA. These cameras will be fitted to officials working in the port environment to detect and punish acts of corruption, while also monitoring the efficiency of officials. Importantly, the cameras are linked to a dedicated Digital Evidence Management System which ensures that all footage is admissible in court to ensure successful convictions.

Minister Schreiber said: “The launch of this technology marks the single biggest step forward ever for enhancing border security and management. Data shows that when we first trialled the use of drones over the Festive Season, the number of attempted illegal crossings that were successfully prevented, increased by 215%. The BMA will now permanently deploy this cutting-edge technology on a fulltime basis.”

Minister Schreiber concluded: “Our message to would-be illegal immigrants and smugglers is clear: for the first time ever, we are now watching the borderline during the day, we are watching at night, we can see your body heat wherever you try to hide, and we will catch you. As we roll out more and more cutting-edge technology, there are fewer and fewer places to hide for criminals who undermine our national security.”

For media enquiries, please contact:

Siya Qoza, Cell number: 082 898 1657

Duwayne Esau – Spokesperson for the Minister, Cell number: 077 606 9702

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS