By REGINALD KANYANE
29 August 2025- A 52-YEAR-OLD man was arrested for dealing in drugs. This comes after the police confiscated a large quantity of suspected Mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of over R7000 and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the suspect was arrested during Operation Vala Umgodi on 28 August 2025. According to Pilane, the operation that was executed, was supported by various provincial components, including the Police Emergency Service, Tactical Response Team, Kimberley, Galeshewe, Kagisho and Roodepan Police Stations, as well as the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality Traffic Department and the Department of Home Affairs.
“These joint efforts were aimed at strengthening law enforcement visibility and maintaining law and order. Crime prevention measures executed during the operation included Vehicle Check Points (VCPs), stop-and-searches and high-visibility patrols.
“The focus areas were illegal mining, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and compliance with South African immigration laws,” he said.
Pilane further said the Northern Cape Provincial Women’s Network and Men for Change also joined the operation, distributing safety tips and raising awareness among motorists and passengers at the VCPs. He said during the operation, intelligence led policing resulted in several targeted raids at houses suspected of drug dealing.
“In addition, significant quantities of dagga were seized, and an enquiry has been opened. Earlier in the week, Operation Vala Umgodi members acted on information regarding drug dealing activities at Bella Street and Dingaan Hostels in Galeshewe.
“Two suspects aged 36 and 54, were arrested and charged with dealing in drugs after suspected tik and cash were recovered,” said Pilane.
He said a total of 21 individuals aged between 18 and 46, were arrested for contravening immigration laws at construction sites in New Park and Belgravia in Kimberley, following a tip-off about undocumented workers. Pilane said employers were fined for violations of immigration legislation.
“All arrested suspects will appear in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court, while investigations continue,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Johny Besnaar, commended the members for their dedication and encouraged them to remain resolute in dismantling all forms of criminality in the province. Besnaar said the public is urged to report suspicious activities through the MySAPS App or the Crime Stop number 08600 10111.
The Guardian 