Operation sees drugs seized and 21 arrested for immigration offences in Kimberley

A multi-disciplinary high-density operation was conducted in the greater Kimberley area on Thursday, August 28, led by Operation Vala Umgodi in the Northern Cape. The operation was supported by various provincial components, including the Police Emergency Service, Tactical Response Team, and local police stations.

According to the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johnny Besnaar, the objective of the operation was to strengthen law enforcement visibility and maintain law and order. Crime prevention measures included Vehicle Checkpoints (VCPs), stop-and-searches, and high-visibility patrols, focusing on illegal mining, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and compliance with South African immigration laws.

During the operation, several targeted raids were conducted at houses suspected of drug dealing. A 52-year-old male suspect was arrested for dealing in drugs after a large quantity of suspected Mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of over R7,000 and an undisclosed amount of cash were confiscated. Significant quantities of dagga were also seized, and an enquiry has been opened.

Earlier in the week, two suspects, aged 36 and 54, were arrested and charged with dealing in drugs after suspected tik and cash were recovered. Additionally, 21 individuals, aged between 18 and 46, were arrested for contravening immigration laws at construction sites in New Park and Belgravia, Kimberley.

Employers were fined for violations of immigration legislation.

All arrested suspects will appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court, while investigations continue. Major General Johnny Besnaar commended the members for their dedication, stating, "The public is urged to report suspicious activities through the MySAPS App or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111."