LIMPOPO was rocked by a massive border breach after SANDF soldiers intercepted 1 174 undocumented foreign nationals from Zimbabwe trying to sneak into Mzansi during the festive season.
The dramatic interception happened on Friday, 26 December near the Groblersbridge Border Post outside Lephalale. The SANDF said this marks an unusual and worrying influx during Christmas celebrations.
SANDF's Captain Moses Semono confirmed the incident. He said soldiers from the 1 South African Tank Regiment were overwhelmed by the numbers.
"This marks the first time our members have had to manage such a massive influx during this period of the festive season," said Semono.
The situation turned violent when one of the undocumented migrants attacked a soldier with a knife. This left him injured.
"Rifleman T.M. Mokoena sustained a stab wound to his forearm while defending himself against an undocumented person who attempted a life-threatening assault," said Semono.
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Despite the danger, Semono said the soldier showed restraint and professionalism.
"Due to the high standard of training provided by the Defence Force, Rifleman Mokoena was able to thwart the danger and neutralise the threat without resorting to deadly force," Semono said.
The injured soldier was treated immediately at the scene by SANDF medics.
"Rifleman Mokoena received immediate treatment from our professional medics, who remain on standby for such incidents," said Semono.
According to the SANDF, all 1 174 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals were handed over in good condition to authorities for further processing.
"The undocumented persons were handed over to the South African Immigration Services in good health and without injury," Semono said.
The captain said that the incident has been handed over to Defence Intelligence Services for further investigation. Senior commanders praised the soldiers' discipline under pressure.
Colonel Dikgabane Herold Tladi, Officer Commanding Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo, commended the troops for their restraint. He wished Rifleman Mokoena a speedy recovery.
The SANDF said it remains on high alert along Limpopo's borders, especially during the festive season. This is to protect South Africa's territorial integrity and ensure public safety.
