By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
4 December 2024- Seventeen illegal suspects aged between 24 and 48, were arrested by the police during Operation Vala Umgodi. On 3 December 2024, the police together with the Department of Home Affairs, acted swiftly after receiving a tip-off about undocumented persons who were allegedly working at a certain business establishment without documentation.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane said upon arrival at the identified premises in Kenilworth, outside Kimberley, 17 suspects were found working at the premises.
“The suspects could not produce any documents that allowed them to be in the country legally. The suspects were confirmed to be illegal in the country after their status was verified by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Officer.
“The suspects were subsequently arrested and the owner of the business establishment was issued with a fine. The police warn the public that the harbouring of undocumented persons is a crime and subjected to a fine or incarceration,” he said.
Shemane further said the police continue with their efforts towards policing illegal mining and related activities through the execution of crime prevention operations, stop and search actions, vehicle and foot patrols. He added that, incidents can be reported via the MySAPS app or 08600 10111.
The Guardian 