Soldiers, helicopters, boats to patrol Limpopo River amid concern over illegal immigrants
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is set to monitor the Limpopo River amid concerns over the number of illegal immigrants crossing into South Africa from Zimbabwe.
The defence force is expected to use helicopters to hover over the river while the South African Police Service will make use of boats to monitor the area.
The measures have been put in place by Minister of Home Affairs Aaron Motsoaledi to curb illegal immigration.
The minister's spokesperson, Siya Qoza, says the department will be working with multiple law enforcement agencies to monitor hotspot areas.
"The initial plan [for the deployment of law enforcement] was for 14 days, but there will be a review to see if they need to continue or take a decision that would be appropriate at the right time," said Qoza.
