South Africans React To Destroyed Bridge Over Limpopo River

Holifil

31 Mar, 2025

Authorities dismantled a handmade bridge near Beitbridge border crossing.
The structure was reportedly used for smuggling goods and people across borders.
Many citizens feel stronger measures are needed to secure South Africa’s borders.

South Africans demand stricter measures after police destroyed a handmade bridge over the Limpopo River. Image: @KayaNews. Source: Twitter

Let’s talk about this situation honestly. South Africans are calling for serious action to stop foreigners from crossing the border freely. The discovery of a makeshift bridge near the Beitbridge border has sparked outrage—and some humor—among citizens who want better protection for their country.

This isn't just about one bridge; it’s about a broader issue of border security. People are fed up with the ease at which individuals and goods can enter the country illegally, and they're demanding answers.

Authorities Take Action: Bridge Destroyed

Just recently, the South African Police Service (SAPS) took matters into their own hands by destroying a handmade bridge located near the Limpopo River, close to the Zimbabwe-South Africa border. This wasn’t just any structure—it was allegedly being used as a secret route for smuggling goods and people in and out of the country.

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According to Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the SAPS’ Explosive Section stepped in to dismantle the bridge before the rainy season hit the Limpopo province. “We acted swiftly to ensure this illegal crossing point was neutralized,” she explained.

“Through the expertise of the SAPS’ Explosive Section, the bridge was successfully destroyed ahead of Limpopo province’s rain season,” said SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk.

Border Issues: A Persistent Problem

Illegally entering South Africa has been a longstanding issue, and many locals are frustrated with how easily people can bypass official checkpoints. Despite efforts to tighten border controls, the problem persists, leaving citizens feeling vulnerable and unheard.

Earlier this year, the Border Management Authority (BMA) announced that since deploying border guards, they’ve managed to stop more than 281,000 individuals from entering the country unlawfully. While this is certainly progress, the recent discovery of the handmade bridge highlights the ongoing challenges.

Public Reaction: Humor Meets Outrage

The news of the handmade bridge has sparked a mix of reactions from South Africans. Some found it amusing, while others were furious and demanded immediate action. Social media was alive with opinions as citizens weighed in on what needs to be done.

Eros Pain chimed in with a creative solution: “They should just build a high-walled dam bordering Zimbabwe. Plus, we’re starting to have water issues in SA, so that dam could help.”

“They should just build a high-walled dam bordering Zim. Plus, we are starting to have water issues in SA, that dam can help.”

Rele Joy wasn’t satisfied with the current measures and voiced her concerns: “Destroying that bridge isn’t enough. They’re still flooding in. We need to close the borders, build a wall. No matter the cost or time, it has to be done.”

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“That's doing nothing. They are still flooding in. Close the borders, build a wall. No matter how long or how big is the cost, it has to be done.”

Others pointed out that corruption might be part of the problem. Tony D Funpage noted: “They did nothing there. Most of the people go straight through the border and bribe the officials.” Another user added, “I never used that one, I use the main bridge without a passport. It’s not that hard.”

“They did nothing there. Most of the people go straight through the border and bribe the officials.”

And then there was Morgen Kanonge, who added a touch of humor to the conversation: “Come next week, there will be a new one.”

“Come next week there will be a new one.”

2023 Stats: Progress, But More Work Needed

In 2023 alone, the Border Management Authority (BMA) reported stopping over 27,000 people from entering South Africa illegally. That’s a significant number, but it doesn’t fully address the concerns of those who believe the current system is failing.

Despite these efforts, many South Africans remain skeptical about the effectiveness of the measures in place. As Briefly News previously reported, the public continues to call for more robust strategies to secure the nation’s borders.

So, where do we go from here? Is destroying bridges enough, or do we need a comprehensive plan to tackle illegal crossings once and for all? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—South Africans are watching closely and expecting results.