SA-Botswana cross-border crime crackdown hits Northern Cape hot spots

THE SOUTH African Police Service (SAPS), in partnership with other law enforcement agencies, has ramped up efforts to tackle cross-border crime along the boundary between South Africa and Botswana. From June 12 to 15, 2025, a series of targeted operations were carried out in hot-spot areas, including Witdraai, Van Zylsrus, and Rietfontein in the Northern Cape.

The multi-day crackdown saw collaboration between specialised SAPS units, the Border Management Authority, and SANParks officials – a co-ordinated effort that underscores the agencies’ shared commitment to securing the country’s borders and curbing cross-border criminal activity.

Arrests and Fines

During the operation, two foreign nationals were arrested for contravening immigration laws. Additionally, fines totalling R6,700 were issued for various offences, including:

Road traffic regulations: Fines were issued for offences related to road traffic regulations, highlighting the importance of road safety.

Drug possession: The operation resulted in fines being issued for drug possession, demonstrating the commitment to combat substance abuse.

Selling liquor without a licence: Businesses found selling liquor without a license were fined, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Failure to brand livestock: Farmers were fined for failure to brand livestock, highlighting the importance of livestock identification.

The operation involved compliance inspections at tuck shops, liquor premises, and farms, as well as high-visibility patrols along borderlines. These actions are aimed at disrupting and even preventing criminal activities.

Additionally, a total of 504 persons and 236 vehicles were stopped and searched during the operation, demonstrating the thoroughness and dedication of law enforcement agencies in combating cross-border crimes.

The provincial commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, commended all involved agencies for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the borders along the province. She emphasised the importance of community support in reporting suspicious activities and criminality.

Lieutenant-General Otola also urged community members to actively support law enforcement efforts by reporting any suspicious activities and criminality, saying that information can be shared anonymously via the MySAPS app or by contacting the Crime Stop hotline at 08600 10111.

Overall, the joint operation between South Africa and Botswana demonstrates the commitment to combating cross-border crimes, and in the wake of this operation, law enforcement agencies will continue to work together to ensure the safety and security of communities along the borders.