A total of 72 undocumented immigrants were detained in Kimberley on Sunday, 16 June.
This was part of Operation Vala Umgodi, which focuses on tracing and raiding illegal and undocumented immigrants who are suspected of conducting illegal mining around the Samaria informal settlement in the city, said Sgt Timothy Sam, police spokesperson. This multi-disciplinary operation includes members of the police, defence force, and the Department of Home Affairs’ immigration services.
The 72 suspects include citizens from Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Nigeria, and more. They will be verified by immigration officials before being formally charged and presented to court for deportation.
