In a decisive move to dismantle cross-border criminal networks, police in the Free State province recently spearheaded a high-density, interprovincial cross-border operation for the 4th Quarter of the 2025/26 financial year.
This strategic initiative, centered in the bordering town of Clarens, ran simultaneously across various provinces to create a unified front against the illegal movement of goods and persons.
The success of the operation was fuelled by an extensive collaboration of specialised South African Police Service (SAPS) units and external departments. The Free State contingent deployed a team of SAPS Specialised Units including Airwing, Crime Intelligence, FLASH, Flying Squad, Highway Patrol, Mounted Unit, K9, Public Order Police, Rapid Rail Police, the Tactical Response Team, Protection and Security Services, District Operational Command Centre, Reservists, the Anti-Gang Unit and Visible Policing.
Also included in the operation were external partners such as Immigration (Home Affairs), the Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, the Department of Health, Traffic, South African Revenue Service, Border Management Authority and the Gambling Board.
“The operation focused heavily on the Thabo Mofutsanyana District, yielding 28 arrests for crimes that directly impact the local economy and community safety. Seven were arrested for stock theft, with stock recovered, and 14 undocumented persons were arrested,” the police said in a statement on Wednesday.
Three drug-related crime arrests were effected. Two males were found in possession of stolen goods, while two traffic fines were issued to non-complying motorists.
“Beyond the arrests, the multi-disciplinary teams focused on tightening regulations and seizing illicit substances.
“Large quantities of crystal meth and mandrax were removed from the streets. About 147.27 litres of liquor were confiscated from an unregistered dealer,” the police said.
Furthermore, 16 fines were issued to outlets found to be non-compliant with the Liquor Act. High-priority visits were conducted at second-hand goods shops and firearm dealers to ensure strict adherence to the law.
“These interprovincial operations are the cornerstone of the SAPS strategy to intensify the fight against cross-border crime. By synchronising efforts across provincial lines, SAPS aims to close the gaps utilised by syndicates and ensure a safer South Africa,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za
