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Thupeyo Muleya Beitbridge Bureau
A bid by the International Cross-Border Traders Association (ICTA) to block the Zimbabwe and South African border on Monday hit a brickwall after their request to protest inside the border area was turned down by security authorities from the two countries.

The group had planned to protest and bring business to a standstill at Sadc’s busiest inland port of entry over two days.
Security officials from both countries were on high alert for the protesters.
“Their programme was turned down for security reasons and in any case the border post is a protected area,” said a security source from South Africa.

“We don’t expect people to do as they please.”
Police officer commanding Beitbridge District Chief Superintendent Francis Phiri was not available for comment.
South Africa’s Limpopo police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Moatshe Ngoepe said they would continue monitoring the situation for any developments.

“No incidents have been reported, but we are closely monitoring the area for any developments,” he said.
Immigration authorities from both countries described the situation as business as usual .
ICTA president Mr Denis Juru said in an interview from his South Africa base that they had to disperse the few people who had gathered for the protest in Musina town.

“We failed to get clearance from both sides of the border, he said.
“The police told us that the border post was a protected area where protests and demonstrations are not allowed.
“Our members wanted to protest within the Zimbabwean and South African components of the border.
“However, you will be informed of our next move in due course.”
Mr Juru said they wanted to demonstrate against alleged harassment and corrupt activities by border official at Beitbridge.