Picture: Two undocumented suspects nabbed/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
1 October 2024- Three undocumented foreign nationals were arrested during an integrated multi-disciplinary intelligence-driven operation dubbed Operation Phakisa that was executed in the Namakwa District from 26 until 29 September 2024.
The maritime operations were jointly executed by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE), Provincial Border Policing, Border Policing, Search and Rescue, Springbok K9, Springbok Vehicle Crime Investigation Unit (VCIU), Springbok Crime Intelligence, the Stock Theft and Endangered Species unit, Department of Home Affairs (Immigration) and South African National Parks (SANPARK).
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said the operation was also executed in Kleinzee, Groenrivier, Port Nolloth, Hondeklip Bay and Alexander Bay. Shemane said during the coastal patrols, including foot, vehicle and vessel patrols, a total of 115 vehicles and 329 persons were stopped and searched at vehicle check points.
“Compliance inspections were conducted at businesses, harbours, launching pads, camp sites, and aquaculture premises. During coastal patrols, two suspects were arrested in Kleinzee for operating a fish processing establishment without a permit under the Marine Act.
“A fine of R2500 was issued for employing undocumented persons during construction site visits in Port Nolloth, and one suspect was arrested for possession of drugs in Port Nolloth,” he said.
Shemane further said the police confiscated several items, including drugs, cash, two Bosch engine hammer mills, and fourteen and a half bags of dry kelp with a total value of approximately R87 960.
Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended the cooperation between the police and other government entities in ensuring that there is a collective effort in policing and preserving marine resources along our coastal areas situated in the Namakwa district.
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