JOHANNESBURG - Over 6,000 undocumented migrants have already been intercepted at ports of entry.
The Border Management Authority is gearing up for an increase in arrivals after the holiday break.
Commissioner Michael Masiapato says most illegal crossings are taking place along the country's western corridor.
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"We are indeed expecting from tomorrow a lot of people starting their journey back into South Africa, and on that basis, we are very much ready to start dealing with those aspects," he said.
"Just to indicate that we are now sitting at over 6,800 individuals that has been intercepted, mainly trying to enter the country or exit the country illegally.
"And of course, the majority, which is basically in reference to the point of the interception by our colleagues from the Defence Force, it is basically in the Western Corridor."