South African and Namibian police tackle border crime in joint operation

The South African Police Service (Saps), in collaboration with their Namibian counterparts, recently embarked on a cross-border operation to tackle crime.

The operation took place from 19 to 22 September.

A recent media statement by Saps noted that cross-border related crimes included drugs, transportation of counterfeit goods, undocumented foreign nationals, the contravention of the Immigration Act and traffic violations at the borders of the two neighbouring countries.

“The Saps were joined by customs officials, the South African Revenue Service, the Border Management Agency, and South African National Defence Force during the execution of disruptive actions. These actions included visits and searches at liquor outlets, railway premises, mines and hostels. High visibility borderline patrols were executed via air, water, vehicle and foot patrols,” noted the statement.

The statement further noted that several vehicle checkpoints were established, where 1 078 vehicles and 2 296 persons were stopped and searched.

“Luggage, passports, permits and relevant travel documents were checked at the points.

Several fines were issued, to the value of R8 100 for violations, including failure to mark an animal and an array of traffic violations.”

According to the statement, four suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs, which resulted in the confiscation of mandrax and cannabis worth approximately R14 925, as well as cash believed to be the proceeds of crimes.

Two undocumented foreign nationals were detained and handed to the relevant authorities for further processing.

“Northern Cape provincial commissioner lieutenant general Koliswa Otola commended the Saps and external role players for their joint efforts and commitment to secure the borders. She extended her gratitude to the law enforcement agencies in Namibia, who contributed towards the success of the operation,” noted the statement.