Limpopo Police Intensify Cross-Border Operations, Seize Vehicles and Boat

In a determined effort to combat cross-border crimes, Limpopo police have seized two vehicles and a boat during an intensive operation in the Masisi policing area. The collaborative initiative involved multiple law enforcement agencies and targeted illegal activities along the Limpopo River.

Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng confirmed the success of the operation, which also resulted in the arrest of four suspects for contravening the Immigration Act and two additional individuals for aiding and abetting.

“The provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has applauded the police and cross-border teams for their collaborative efforts in preventing cross-border crime in the Vhembe District,” said Thakeng.

The operation, conducted on Monday, employed a combination of roadblocks, stop-and-search initiatives, and cross-border patrols. The arrested suspects are set to appear in court, with investigations ongoing.

Lieutenant General Hadebe commended the teamwork between police forces, cross-border business forums, and members of local farmers’ unions. “The combined efforts demonstrate the power of collaboration in addressing cross-border criminal activities,” she said.

The operation comes amid broader efforts to tackle illegal mining in Limpopo. On Monday, police reported the arrest of 17 individuals, including 14 undocumented foreign nationals, as part of the province-wide Vala Umgodi multi-disciplinary initiative.

These operations, which also involve the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), focus on dismantling illegal sand mining and other illicit activities linked to gold-bearing minerals and chrome extraction.

Further Arrests and Violations

• Immigration Act Violations: Four arrests were made in Thohoyandou, Vhembe District, and ten in Westenburg, Capricorn District.
• Illegal Sand Mining: Three individuals, aged between 30 and 45, were arrested in the Sekhukhune District for unlawfully loading sand.
• Additional Offenses: Seven individuals were fined for selling expired food in Tynmine, Waterberg District.

These operations underscore the dedication of Limpopo law enforcement to curbing illegal activities and ensuring public safety. With cross-border crime and illegal resource exploitation posing significant challenges, the continued collaboration between stakeholders is expected to yield further successes.

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