SANDF’s Major Shihlangoma Mahlahlane says women cross the border to give birth and register their children as South African citizens.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) this week ramped up operations along the Zimbabwean border in Limpopo and revealed that pregnant women are crossing the border illegally to access social grants for their children.
Speaking to the media, the SANDF’s Major Shihlangoma Mahlahlane revealed that there is an increase in pregnant women entering the country so they can register their children as South African citizens.
On Thursday, the SANDF’s Operation Corona conducted night patrols to combat illegal immigration.
Mahlahlane said most of the border crossings take place when it is dark to avoid being caught. He also said the illegal immigrants bribe officials to let them through the borders.
He said the high cost of living and lack of jobs in neighbouring countries have left many “desperate to get …