By: Nokulunga Lebambo

Members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) went above and beyond their official duties when they helped deliver a baby at the Lebombo Port of Entry yesterday.A Mozambican national, Ms Marluz Albino Tovela, who was travelling to Nhembane, went into labour shortly after arriving at the busy border post on 30 December 2025.

With no immediate medical assistance available, officials on duty swiftly coordinated an emergency response.According to reports, the Buzaphi Team requested urgent assistance from the SAPS office stationed at the port. SAPS members responded without delay, providing critical support as the situation unfolded. At approximately 07:55, a healthy baby boy was safely delivered at the border post.

Sergeant Tshidi Mokoena and Constable Sandiso Nyathi from SAPS, working alongside Ms Jabu Nkuna of SARS, courageously stepped in and assisted as midwives during the delivery. Their calm and selfless intervention ensured the safe arrival of the newborn, who has since been affectionately nicknamed “Baby SAPS and Customs.”Both the mother and her newborn were confirmed to be in good health following the birth.

They were later transported by ambulance to Tonga Hospital for further medical observation and care.The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the officials for their exceptional conduct. He highlighted that policing extends beyond crime prevention, emphasizing that compassion, humanity and service to the community remain at the heart of the SAPS mandate.