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South Africa police destroy illegal bridge on Zimbabwe border
By Agencies
SOUTH AFRICA: Police have destroyed a bridge near the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe that is believed to have been used to smuggle people and goods.
The illegal bridge over the Limpopo River was less than a kilometre east of the Beitbridge Port of Entry.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the man-made bridge was found by border policing members while on patrol this week.
“Border policing members deployed on the South African / Zimbabwean borderline found this bridge while patrolling the border fence line,” she said in a statement.
“The illegal bridge was less than a kilometre east of Beit Bridge Port of Entry and reportedly used to smuggle goods and people into and out of South Africa.
“Through the expertise of the SAPS’ Explosive Section, the bridge was successfully destroyed ahead of Limpopo province’s rain season.
“The Border policing members deployed in Limpopo province form part of OPERATION VALA UMGODI; government’s response to address illicit mining activities in the country.”
Van Wyk said Operation Vala Umgodi was established in December 2023 and includes members from the police, SA National Defence Force, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Department of Home Affairs and other law enforcement agencies.