Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber, says drones and body-worn cameras are to be deployed from the Easter weekend to enhance border security. Picture: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers
Image: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers
In a significant step to bolster South Africa’s border security, Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber unveiled state-of-the-art surveillance technology that will be rolled out by the Border Management Authority (BMA) over the Easter weekend.
The launch includes four advanced unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly known as drones, and 40 body-worn cameras that will be used to monitor illegal activity and enhance accountability at ports of entry.
“In terms of our unwavering commitment to digital transformation (we) launched today 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 minister said.
He said the drones are fitted with world-class night vision and thermal detection cameras. Powered by Artificial Intelligence, they can recognise and lock onto heat sources, track people or vehicles, and operate without GPS, even in underground or remote areas.
The AI-enabled drones can launch within 15 seconds and travel at speeds of up to 43 kilometres per hour, functioning under all weather conditions.
The BMA is training eight officers to operate the drones on a rotating shift basis across various ports. Additionally, the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform will provide five more drones for use during the Easter period, following a successful collaboration over the festive season.
The 40 body-worn cameras are designed to combat corruption and monitor staff performance. They are connected to a Digital Evidence Management System, ensuring the footage is legally admissible.
“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,” said Schreiber.
He added: “The launch of this technology marks the single biggest step forward ever for enhancing border security and management.”
According to Schreiber, drone trials over the festive period helped increase the prevention of illegal border crossings by 215%.
“Our message to would-be illegal immigrants and smugglers is clear: for the first time, 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.”