SA safety and security structure intensifies operations at border with Mozambique

The South African National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (NatJoints) has intensified its operations along the South Africa-Mozambique border to prevent and combat any “opportunistic crimes” that might arise as a result of the ongoing unrest in the neighbouring region.

The announcement of these measures on Sunday followed reports that a riot at a prison in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, on Christmas Day resulted in more than 1,500 prisoners escaping from the facility. Another 33 died and 15 were wounded during the incident.

Read more: More than 1,500 escape from Mozambican prison after riot that left 33 dead

“The government of South Africa has noted with concern the ongoing protests in parts of Mozambique and reports of individuals escaping from a maximum-security prison during this period of unrest. These developments have understandably raised apprehensions among South African citizens regarding the potential cross-border implications,” said NatJoints.

“The government of South Africa is actively engaging the government of Mozambique at a bilateral level to address these concerns and explore sustainable solutions. Both nations are leveraging their strong diplomatic ties to ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to restore order and enhance security in the affected regions.”

Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber has given his assurance that all South African nationals arriving at the border from Mozambique will be able to “return home safely”, according to his party, the DA.

Disruptive protests broke out in Mozambique on Tuesday, 23 December after the country’s Constitutional Council certified the ruling Frelimo party and its presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, as the winners of the presidential, legislative and provincial elections in October. The elections were marred by accusations of rigging, with opposition presidential candidate Venâncio Mondlane of the Podemos party stating that he was the true winner.

The president-elect of Mozambique, Daniel Chapo, meets members of the public in Maputo on 23 December. (Photo: Luisa Nhantumbo / EPA-EFE)

Read more: SA calls for urgent dialogue amidst Mozambique’s escalating violence and protests

The death toll since the escalation in unrest has reached 125, according to a Reuters report.

The NatJoints statement noted the “interconnected nature of regional security” and reaffirmed the commitment of the South African government to support Mozambique in restoring peace and stability in the region.

“To demonstrate South Africa’s commitment towards finding an amicable solution to the impasse in Mozambique, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent Professor Sydney Mufamadi as a special envoy to engage all relevant stakeholders,” it said.

Special envoy

Mufamadi, national security adviser and former minister of safety and security, met with Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi in Maputo on Friday, 27 December, according to a report by Agência de Informação de Moçambique (AIM).

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Mufamadi acknowledged that the Mozambican and South African economies were deeply intertwined, meaning that events in one country affected the other.

“As President Ramaphosa says, we have no choice but to make this very heavy burden a bit lighter, by sharing it with Mozambique,” said Mufamadi.

Daily Maverick reached out to the South African Presidency for further information about the outcomes of the meeting but had not received a response by the time of publishing.

Tourists cautioned

The African Travel and Tourism Association (Atta), an organisation representing buyers and sellers of tourism services across Africa, has warned tourists to be vigilant when travelling through Mozambique. It noted that the country’s urban areas in particular had seen “significant disruption” since the Constitutional Council’s announcement.

“The situation requires careful navigation,” said Kgomotso Ramothea, the CEO of Atta.

“While we’re seeing intense protest activity in cities like Maputo, Beira and Nampula, with reports of business closures and transportation disruptions, reports from many of Mozambique’s prime tourist destinations, particularly along the coast, suggest they are experiencing less impact from the current situation.

“The dynamic situation means travellers must stay informed and flexible.” DM