SANDF control of the Northern and Eastern border areas of South Africa

Borderline control and security were historically the responsibility of the SAP until the withdrawal of the counterinsurgency units at the end of 1990

Borderline control and security were historically the responsibility of the South African Police (SAP) until the withdrawal of the counterinsurgency units at the end of 1990. The Army has maintained a presence on the borders in significant numbers since the 1970s. In the Interim Constitution of 1993, borderline functions were again allocated to the South African Police Service (SAPS). However, with the sharp rise in crime in the country and the subsequent extra burden this placed on the police, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) was placed in service by the president to assist and support the SAPS with crime prevention, including assistance in borderline security. As a result, the SANDF had a strong presence with 28 infantry companies and five aircraft deployed on the international borders of South Africa at the time.

An agreement was signed on 10 June 1998 between the SANDF and the SAPS that designated the responsibility for borderline protection to the SANDF. In terms of this agreement, as contained in a cabinet memorandum, the SANDF has formally been requested to patrol the borders of South Africa. This is to ensure that the integrity of borders is maintained by preventing the unfettered movement of people and goods across the South African borderline between border posts. The role of the SANDF has been defined technically as one of support to the SAPS and other departments to combat crime as requested. In practice, however, the SANDF patrols without the direct support of the other departments.  

About the author

Ettienne Hennop joined the ISS in October 1998 as a researcher in AMP. A member of the South African Police Service for 13 years, he held the rank of Detective Inspector. During his career, he served with different sections in the SA Police Service. From 1993 until 1998, he served with the FIU Head Office and the Pretoria FIU as an investigating officer and firearms expert. He successfully completed several courses in ballistics, the identification of firearms and ammunition, the testing of firearms for court purposes, the identification and handling of explosives.