BPS tightens security as SA's anti-migrant deadline nears
Pini Bothoko | Tuesday June 30, 2026 13:32
Appearing before the 62nd Public Accounts Committee (PAC) this week, police Commissioner Dinah Marathe revealed that the police service has intensified its security preparations nationwide amid growing concerns that worsening tensions in South Africa could drive foreign nationals across Botswana's borders.
Marathe said although the police service continues to face manpower shortages, officers will remain vigilant and utilise available resources to safeguard the country's security.
'We anticipate that if tensions continue to intensify in South Africa, some foreign nationals may seek refuge or relocate to Botswana. This could result in an increase in undocumented migrants entering the country, and we must be prepared for such a scenario,' she told the committee.
She explained that while many migrants may be seeking safety and better opportunities, undocumented migration presents security challenges.
'There is a high likelihood that some foreigners will relocate to Botswana if tensions intensify in South Africa and somehow find their way into the country. Their arrival may increase pressure on law enforcement because undocumented individuals often have no means of sustaining themselves. Some may resort to criminal activities in order to make ends meet,' Marathe said.
Marathe further noted that border security remains a priority despite operational challenges facing the service. She added that police officers continue to work closely with members of the Botswana Defence Force (BDF) to patrol borders and monitor illegal crossings.
She assured the committee that BPS remains on high alert and is closely monitoring developments in neighbouring South Africa. The concerns come as organised anti-migrant groups in South Africa continue to demand that undocumented foreign nationals leave the country by June 30. The groups have issued ultimatums calling on migrants to depart or face unspecified consequences, despite lacking legal authority to enforce them.
South Africa has in recent weeks experienced growing anti-foreigner sentiment, raising fears of possible xenophobic violence. According to international reports, previous outbreaks of xenophobic attacks in the country have resulted in deaths, injuries and the displacement of thousands of foreign nationals, forcing some African countries to repatriate their citizens.
The situation has placed South Africa under increasing scrutiny as authorities attempt to balance citizens' right to protest with the need to maintain law and order.
In recent statements, South African police reiterated that while peaceful protests are protected under the law, criminal acts, intimidation, violence, destruction of property and any attempts to undermine public safety will not be tolerated.
South Africa, which has long been a destination for migrant labour from across the continent, continues to grapple with unemployment levels exceeding 30 %. The country's economic challenges have often fuelled accusations that foreign nationals contribute to crime and take employment opportunities from locals, claims that have repeatedly sparked tensions between communities.
Meanwhile, concerns are also mounting among some Batswana, particularly in urban centres and towns, who fear that any large-scale movement of undocumented migrants into Botswana could place additional strain on law enforcement and potentially contribute to rising crime levels.
However, authorities have urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring citizens that security agencies are closely monitoring the situation and have contingency plans in place should migration pressures increase in the coming weeks.