Police in Lejweleputswa townships net over 69 illegal immigrants for major crimes

Police in Free State townships in the Lejweleputswa District have arrested over 69 suspects in the high-density Operation Vala Umgodi carried out this past long-weekend.

The arrested suspects were involved in a wide range of serious crimes, including illegal mining, business robbery, drug dealing, possession of drugs and suspected stolen properties.

The extensive crackdown, which took place from August 5 to August 10, has seen a concerted effort by law enforcement agencies to address various criminal offenses related to illegal mining, immigration violations, and possession of illegal materials.

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Operation Vala Umgodi, spearheaded by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in collaboration with the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) and the Department of Home Affairs, targeted key areas including the Kopanang Mine, Beatrix Mine Shaft Number 4, and various tuckshops and supermarkets in the region.

Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, captain Stephen Thakeng, says that a total of 69 illegal immigrants were removed from the streets and local establishments.

“The operation also led to the arrest of suspects for a range of offenses, including traffic violations, obstruction of justice, crimen injuria, and violations of the Mine Health and Safety Act,” Thakeng said.

“The police seized a variety of illegal goods, including 15.40 kg of gold-bearing material, crystal meth, rock drugs, dagga with a street value of R7,250, 13.6 kg of copper cable, and various suspected stolen properties. In addition, vehicle checkpoints, stop-and-search operations, and bush foot patrols were conducted,” added Thakeng.

The suspects arrested during this operation made their brief appearance yesterday, Monday, August 12, in several magistrate courts, including Viljoenskroon, Odendaalsrus, Ventersburg, Welkom, Theunissen, and Bultfontei.

Captain Thakeng emphasized the commitment of the police and allied agencies to maintaining law and order. “Operation Vala Umgodi reflects our dedication to tackling illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Thakeng stated.