South Africa Closes Lebombo Border Crossing Again Amid Escalating Violence in Mozambique

The South African Border Management Authority announced the re-closure of the Lebombo border crossing with Mozambique on Thursday, following a brief reopening. This decision comes in response to escalating post-election violence in Mozambique.

Michael Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority, stated that the closure was necessary after Mozambican protesters attempted to follow a group of 15 fleeing government officials across the border. South African authorities have implemented these precautionary measures to prevent the violence from spreading into their territory.

The border had been temporarily opened earlier to allow Mozambican citizens to return to their country, but the security situation worsened after Mozambique’s presidential election on October 9. The election results, which saw Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo win with over 70% of the vote, sparked widespread protests and civil unrest throughout the country.