BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – As dawn broke over Eswatini’s borders, silent patrol units were already in motion, their task, to protect the nation’s sovereignty.
Over the past three months, these coordinated operations by the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) have produced remarkable results, reinforcing the Ministry of Defence and National Security’s central role in keeping the Kingdom safe.
According to the Ministry’s Second Quarterly Performance Report for 2025/26, tabled in Parliament, the Ministry achieved notable victories in border control and national security despite financial constraints.
A major breakthrough was recorded in dagga control, with 2 266.774 kg of the drug, valued at E2 266 774, seized and handed over to police stations. The UEDF’s swift action along foot and vehicle patrol routes thwarted smuggling attempts, many of which involved foreign nationals.
The Ministry also dealt a decisive blow to stock theft, intercepting 70 goats worth E93 900 and 31 cattle worth E344 000 that were being rustled out of the country. Moreover, undeclared goods worth E84 555.25 were recovered and transferred to the Eswatini Revenue Authority, contributing to national revenue collection.
In financial crime, the UEDF intercepted undeclared cash totalling E981 773.85, while arms and ammunition were confiscated, including three pistols and 17 rounds of live ammunition. Operations also uncovered illegal mining of one tonne of green chert stone and the control of red mercury valued at E1.2 million, showing the depth of criminal activities being countered.
In total, border security teams monitored over 157 000 entries and exits, controlling illegal crossings by 68 Mozambicans and 7 South Africans, as well as 31 Emaswati border violators.
These achievements reflect a highly coordinated, disciplined approach to protecting Eswatini. By intercepting contraband, curbing stock theft, and enhancing border patrols, the Ministry has strengthened national security and revenue collection, demonstrating effectiveness even amid fiscal challenges.
