ODENDAALSRUS, Matjhabeng – A multidisciplinary police operation has arrested three illegal immigrants for drug trafficking in Odendaalsrus, Matjhabeng, seizing drugs worth R130 000.

The intelligence-driven operation on 25 June involved the Free State Provincial Organised Crime Investigation, Welkom Crime Intelligence, Provincial Crime Intelligence Surveillance Unit, Selosesha Tactical Response Team and Welkom Anti-Gang Unit.

The team arrested three undocumented immigrants aged 31, 36 and 37 who face 13 cases related to dealing and possession of drugs. Operational members confiscated crystal meth, mandrax and nyaope during the investigation and final arrests.

Police also seized a black Ford Focus belonging to one suspect, which was used for drug deliveries. The suspects have approximately 10 other pending cases before the court.

Azusor Ikennia John Kennedy (37), Orji Evalictus Okechukwu (36) and Henrietta Sibanda (31) appeared in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court. They face charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, with additional charges expected regarding contravention of the Immigration Act.

The matter was postponed to 7 July for bail information. The suspects remain in custody.

Eleven illegal miners arrested in separate Welkom operation

In a separate operation last week, 11 suspected illegal miners were arrested and more than 120 kilograms of gold bearing material confiscated during Operation Prosper actions in Welkom.

Joint forces from the South African Police Service, South African National Defence Force and private mining security companies conducted the arrests during operations to eradicate illegal mining activities in Lejweleputswa District.

Seven males aged between 20 and 49 were arrested for illegal mining activities on the Eland Shaft mine area. The suspects were found separating gold using a self-made table. Police confiscated 13 spades, seven pick axes, three steel plates, two pairs of gumboots and four buckets, along with 63,70 kilograms of gold bearing material.

Two males aged 38 and 43 were arrested at Reahola Hostel, with police seizing 58,10 kilograms of gold bearing material and mining equipment. Two more suspects aged 38 and 64 were arrested at Tim Right, with 28,98 kilograms of gold bearing material seized.

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