KIMBERLEY – Simultaneous cross-border operations in the Namakwa and ZF Mgcawu Districts nabs multiple suspects for various crimes. The cross-border operation dubbed, ‘Operation Gijima’ resolved to conduct simultaneous operations between SARPCCO regions from 27 until 29 July 2022.
The focus areas of the operation were the Vioolsdrift Port of Entry which borders with Namibia on the N7 which is 120 kilometres from Springbok and the Nakop Port of Entry on the N10 which is 130 kilometres from Upington.
The operation commenced with a briefing session held in Springbok on 26 July 2022 conducted by the Acting Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Brigadier Nicky Mills who was also the overall commander who actively participated in the execution of the police actions.
The focus areas of the operation addressed theft of motor vehicles, illicit drug trafficking, illicit trafficking of firearms and ammunition, human trafficking and smuggling, smuggling of minerals, theft of copper cables, wildlife related crimes as well crimes committed during the timeframe of Operation Gijima.
A total of 65 arrests were effected for the period.
Tracing operations for National and daily wanted suspects were also conducted in the two districts which resulted in the apprehension and arrest of two suspects on the National wanted list and 16 on the daily wanted list for various crimes including rape, domestic violence, assault GBH, housebreaking and theft and other crimes.
A total of 10 Arrests were made for possession and dealing in drugs with confiscations of drugs worth
A total cash amount of R510, 000 were seized at various locations in Port Nolloth, Steinkopf, Garies, Rosedale, Paballelo, Keimoes and Kakamas while 19 persons were arrested for other crimes.
Numerous vehicle checkpoints were conducted on national and secondary roads during which vehicles were stopped and persons were searched.
Trucks crossing the border at the two Ports of Entry were also searched.
A total of 18 undocumented persons were apprehended and arrested on a farm in the Augrabies farming area.
The SAPS fixed wing Porter aircraft also conducted air patrols covering the coastal areas and the borderline.
A total of 448 Litres of alcohol to the value of R11 485-00 was seized during compliance inspections at liquor outlets in Upington in conjunction with the Northern Cape Liquor Board.
The Acting Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Brigadier Mills commended the members from both the Namakwa and ZF Mgcawu District offices, stations, units and Provincial components who participated in the planning and execution of the police actions for their discipline and professionalism displayed during the operation.
He also stated that the disruptive actions sent a clear message to criminals that the police in the Northern Cape will not tolerate any criminal activities especially those committed at the borders.
Source: South African Police Service