Thermal Drones and Cameras Strengthen South Africa’s Border Defence

A major technology upgrade is being rolled out at South Africa’s borders this Easter. The Border Management Authority (BMA) is deploying drones and body-worn cameras to help prevent illegal crossings during the busy holiday period.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber revealed the new security measures during a briefing in Pretoria, describing them as a major milestone in the country’s fight against border crime.

[MEDIA STATEMENT] Minister Leon Schreiber launches cutting-edge technology for #BMA to improve border management [READ HERE: https://t.co/UeW4jI0rMH] #TeamHomeAffairs #DHAServiceDelivery pic.twitter.com/jMXUX6TyT6

— HomeAffairsSA (@HomeAffairsSA) April 10, 2025

Schreiber confirmed that four high-tech drones and 40 body-worn cameras will be in operation at multiple border posts and ports of entry. The technology was previously tested during the December festive season, showing promising results.

“The launch of this technology marks the single biggest step ever for enhancing border security and management,” Schreiber said.

He added that during the December trial, the number of successfully prevented illegal crossings increased by 215%.

[WATCH] Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber announces the launch of drones that will be used along the borders from Easter in an attempt to intercept illegal crossings into South Africa. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/Cf9xqVBfvm

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) April 10, 2025

Following the success, the BMA will now permanently use these tools, with drones to be deployed full-time across 15 key sectors.

The drones will use advanced features such as thermal imaging and long-range zoom lenses to detect movement and capture clear footage, even at night. Five additional drones from the Department of Agriculture will support the effort.

The minister said the use of drone surveillance and body-worn cameras is part of a broader strategy to improve security and streamline the management of high traveller volumes during peak seasons like Easter.

Picture: FB/Department of Home Affairs