South Africa has closed one of the busy areas along its border with Mozambique following violent post-election protests in the neighboring country.
These protests led to clashes in many cities following the presidential election last month which was won by the ruling party in Mozambique, Frelimo.
Authorities say there are reports of burning vehicles on the Mozambican side at the port of Lebombo.
“Due to these security incidents and to ensure public safety, the port has been temporarily closed until further notice,” said the South African border agency.
Lebombo, one of the four busiest ports in southern Africa, is 110 kilometers (68 miles) from Mozambique's capital, Maputo, and about 440 kilometers from South Africa's capital, Pretoria.
Travelers have been advised to use alternative crossings between the two countries.
The violence has spread to Ressano Garcia, which is a small area in the province of Maputo, near Lebombo, said Michael Masiapato, commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA) in South Africa.
Mr. Masiapato said that the South African side was not affected but safety measures must be taken.
“Some buildings have been burnt. We are currently busy trying to protect the Lebombo border as well as the safety of travellers,” he said in a statement.
“The border will be closed to ensure the safety of travelers.”
Reports say that protesters on the Mozambican side of the border with Mozambique have set fire to the immigration office in that country.
Seven Mozambican officials have requested asylum on the South African side for safety and security, authorities said.
BMA officials, the South African police and the military have come together to stop the protests from spreading to South Africa.
Protests began at the end of October in Maputo after Daniel Chapo, a Frelimo candidate, was officially declared the winner with more than 71% of the vote.
Opposition leader Venâncio Mondlane, who came second with 20% of the vote, went into hiding before the results were announced.
He mentioned fearing for his safety after his assistant and lawyer were killed while they were preparing to challenge the results.
The protests led to violent clashes with police and at least 18 people were killed, according to Human Rights Watch.
Internet and social media are also restricted.
The strike called by Mondlane continued even though the prime minister told people to go back to work.
On Tuesday, Defense Minister Cristóvão Chume threatened to send in the military ahead of nationwide protests called for Thursday.
Chume said the post-election protests were aimed at “changing democratically established power”.
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