By REGINALD KANYANE
28 September 2026 – A multi-agency law enforcement operation along the Namakwa coastal areas has resulted in several arrests, the seizure of drugs worth approximately R98 500 and the confiscation of illicit cigarettes valued at R390 323. The South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with various law enforcement and government departments, conducted Operation Phakisa from 22 to 26 September 2026, targeting Kleinzee, Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Hondeklip Bay and Koingnaas.
The operation brought together SAPS specialised units and partner departments, including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, as well as Customs. The integrated operation focused on addressing criminal activities and ensuring compliance with legislation governing coastal activities.
Law enforcement teams conducted searches and inspections at harbours, launching sites, mining areas, camping sites, fish shops and restaurants. A total of 100 vehicles and 166 individuals were searched, while multiple vessels were also inspected.
Vehicle Check Points (VCPs) were conducted to enhance police visibility and ensure compliance across the targeted areas.
According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers the operation yielded several successes, including the arrest of two individuals for contraventions of the Immigration Act and one suspect for contravening the Refugees Act. Ehlers said fines amounting to R4 400 were issued for contraventions of the National Road Traffic Act, while a further R4 700 in fines was issued for violations of the Marine Living Resources Act.
“Fish valued at approximately R1 500 was also seized in connection with contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act Three suspects were arrested for drug-related offences following the seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of R98 500.
“A significant amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime, was also confiscated, while illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R390 323 were seized and handed over to Customs for further handling,” she said.
The Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all SAPS members and participating law enforcement and government departments for their commitment and collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the operation. Otola emphasised that sustained and integrated multi-agency operations are critical in disrupting criminal activities, enforcing compliance with legislation and protecting communities, natural resources and legitimate economic activities along the province’s coastal areas.
“The police in Northern Cape would continue working closely with law enforcement and government partners to address criminality, ensure compliance with the law and protect communities and coastal resources.
“Those who engage in criminal activities would be identified and dealt with within the ambit of the law. The Northern Cape SAPS and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening integrated policing operations and maintaining a visible and effective law enforcement presence throughout the province,” she said.
