The Border Management Authority (BMA) is strengthening security and accountability at South Africa's ports of entry through increased use of technology.
The authority says all BMA officers will be required to wear body-worn cameras while on duty as part of efforts to curb corruption and improve monitoring at border crossings.
BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi says technology is helping to strengthen the resources already deployed at ports of entry.
“Our officials are required to wear body-worn cameras to monitor the interactions they have with travellers at the ports of entry,” Mogotsi said.
The BMA is also using drones for surveillance and monitoring operations.
Mogotsi says the authority will soon introduce a vehicle tracking system aimed at preventing the illegal smuggling of vehicles out of the country.
“You cannot bribe a camera, you cannot bribe a drone to not record,” she said.
The BMA has dismissed more than 50 officials, with several facing arrest over alleged corruption.
Mogotsi says the authority is working to prevent further dismissals by strengthening its internal controls.
Officials will undergo vetting processes and will also be required to declare their assets as part of measures aimed at improving accountability within the organisation.