C-BRTA Commends 53-Year Conviction of Cross-Border Vehicle Hijacker

Lwazi Mboyi, CEO of the C-BRTA, expressed the agency’s approval of the progress made by law enforcement authorities in combating cross-border crimes.

The Cross-Border Road Transport Agency (C-BRTA) has lauded the recent 53-year conviction of cross-border vehicle hijacker and smuggler, Sipho Mhlanga, as a significant victory in the fight against cross-border crimes.

Mhlanga received his sentence from the Mtubatuba Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 19.

Lwazi Mboyi, CEO of the C-BRTA, expressed the agency's approval of the progress made by law enforcement authorities in combating cross-border crimes. "This is a step in the right direction because cross-border crimes and related syndicates frustrate South Africa's efforts to improve and build a healthy trade between the country and neighbouring countries. It is for this reason that we commend the work that has been done thus far, and we would like to wish the South African Police well in their efforts to eliminate cross-border crimes," Mboyi said in a statement on Sunday.

Mhlanga's arrest and subsequent conviction were the result of exemplary efforts by the South African Police Service (SAPS), who were deployed to the northern part of KwaZulu-Natal to address cross-border criminal activities.

"The C-BRTA, as the facilitator of the commercial transportation of passengers, goods and services across borders, welcomes and commends the SAPS for the work they have done in fighting and combating cross-border crimes in KwaZulu-Natal and in the country in general," the agency said.

The C-BRTA is a statutory body operating in a commercial environment, with the government represented by the Minister of Transport as the shareholder. The agency facilitates the unimpeded flow of freight and passenger cross-border movements and plays a critical role in the implementation of cross-border road transport agreements and the issuance of cross-border operator permits.

This conviction marks a notable achievement in the ongoing efforts to ensure safe and efficient cross-border transportation, reinforcing the C-BRTA's commitment to supporting law enforcement in maintaining security and promoting lawful trade.