Operation Vala Umgodi continues unabated to deal with especially illegal immigration.
This is evident after 45 illegal immigrants from Mozambique, Malawi, Lesotho, Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Zimbabwe were removed from different towns in the Free State between 9 and 15 July.
In addition to vehicle check points being set up and stop-and-search operations being conducted, people and vehicles were searched; and aerial observations and way-lay operations took place.
Members of the SAPS and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) conducted bush foot patrols and numerous intelligence driven operations, and the SAPS maintained high visibility at the mines and shafts in Kopanong, Vierfontein, as well as in the Matjhabeng, Bothaville, Kroonstad, Viljoenskroon and Theunissen precincts.
Three South Africans were arrested for possession of suspected stolen cables, believed to have been taken from the Amogelang Mall, Welkom, and attempted murder.
A 37-year-old South African male was arrested for impersonating a police officer and assault on a police officer.
“The Free State SAPS management appreciate residents who are reporting criminals in their respective areas, especially with respect to illegal mining, drug dealing and serious crimes,” says Capt. Stephen Thakeng, media liaison officer for the SAPS in Lejweleputswa.
