A multi-disciplinary law enforcement operation in Limpopo has resulted in the arrest of 127 undocumented foreign nationals and three employers accused of hiring them illegally.
The operation, conducted under Operation Retshepeng “Trust Us” as part of Operation Shanela II in the Vhembe District on Thursday, targeted illegal immigration and other criminal activities through stop-and-search operations, roadblocks, compliance inspections and crime prevention patrols.
According to Limpopo SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, police repatriated 115 undocumented Zimbabwean nationals, while 12 undocumented foreign nationals – nine Ethiopians and three Ghanaians – were arrested for allegedly contravening the Immigration Act.
Three employers were also arrested for allegedly employing undocumented foreign nationals.
Police further arrested wanted suspects linked to serious crimes, including robbery, theft, burglary, assault, possession of suspected stolen property and drug-related offences.
The operation also led to arrests and fines for liquor-related offences, illegal gambling, road traffic violations and other crimes.
Officers confiscated dagga, crystal methamphetamine, more than 103 litres of liquor and nine dangerous weapons during the operation.
In total, law enforcement officers carried out 302 enforcement actions.
Acting Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers praised the coordinated efforts of the participating law enforcement agencies.
“The successes achieved through Operation Retshepeng demonstrate our determination to combat crime, enforce the law and protect our communities. These integrated operations will continue across Limpopo to ensure criminals are brought to book and residents remain safe,” Scheepers said.
