The South African Police Service in the Lejweleputswa District held disruptive operations at various station precincts under Operation Shanela on Thursday, 11 June from 08:00.

The multidisciplinary approach included SAPS Visible Policing members from various stations in collaboration with several law enforcement agencies: the Department of Home Affairs, Environmental Affairs, the Department of Labour and the Free State Gambling, Liquor and Tourism Authority.

The operations focused on undocumented persons and non-compliant businesses.

Actions conducted during these operations included verification of documents, business compliance inspections, stops and searches, and other crime prevention duties.

The operations yielded the following results:

• 29 people arrested for contravening the Immigration Act
• Five fines issued for non-compliance under the Gambling and Liquor Act and the selling of counterfeit goods
• Four fines issued during vehicle stops and searches for contravention of the Road Traffic Act
• Expired and counterfeit goods confiscated

More coordinated actions will continue throughout the district to strengthen the enforcement of South African immigration laws and ensure compliance by foreign national-owned businesses.

Lejweleputswa district commissioner Major General Tholie Afonso commended all members and stakeholders for their commitment and ensuring that the objectives of the operation were executed.

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