EASTERN CAPE – A four-day cross-border operation targeting organised crime syndicates involved in drug trafficking, stock theft, illegal firearm smuggling and the facilitation of undocumented migration has resulted in 275 arrests.

Police also seized counterfeit goods with an estimated street value of more than R15 million during the operation.

The operation ran from 1 to 4 September across strategic border corridors in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Northern Cape and Free State.

According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana, the integrated operation targeted criminal networks involved in cross-border crime.

The multidisciplinary operation brought together specialised South African Police Service (SAPS) units, including the Airwing, K9 Unit and Tactical Response Teams (TRT).

The operation was supported by the Border Management Authority, South African National Defence Force, South African Revenue Service and Department of Home Affairs.

4,000 Mandrax tablets seized

A significant breakthrough came on 3 September, when police uncovered 4,000 Mandrax tablets concealed inside a courier parcel.

The parcel, which was being sent from Gauteng to the Western Cape, had been flagged by a K9 Unit member acting on intelligence.

The following day, the member and narcotics-detection dog Nolan inspected the parcel with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) at a courier depot.

Nolan indicated the presence of narcotics, leading to the discovery of the tablets.

A 43-year-old Nigerian national was taken into custody in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape.

In a separate operation, police intercepted a suspect allegedly in possession of three unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

275 suspects arrested

Of the 275 suspects arrested, 55 were held for offences involving unlicensed firearms, drug dealing or possession of suspected stolen property.

A further 76 undocumented foreign nationals were detained for processing.

Police also confiscated six firearms and ammunition and 28 illegal gambling machines.

During roadblocks, police stopped and searched 8,406 vehicles and 13,039 people.

A total of 406 traffic fines, amounting to R396,950, were issued.

Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata praised the co-operation between the various law enforcement agencies.

“These syndicates attempt to exploit provincial boundaries to evade law enforcement, but our unified operational front has made it clear that there is no sanctuary for criminals,” Ncata said.

He said police would continue applying pressure along highways, rural border posts and ports of entry.

“We will continue to apply aggressive pressure on our highways, rural border posts, and ports of entry to ensure the safety and security of our communities,” Ncata said.

SAPS encouraged the public to report criminal activity anonymously via the MySAPS App or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.

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