Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ A recent joint operation between South Africa and Botswana has achieved notable success in combating cross-border crimes along their shared borders. The operation, which ran from Thursday, September 5, to Sunday, September 9, focused on curbing illegal activities related to transnational crimes and enforcing stricter border management protocols.
Sergeant Timothy Sam, the spokesperson for the Northern Cape police, explained that the operation targeted several key areas, including Van Zylsrus, Witdraai, Gembok, Twee Rivieren, Middleputs, and Makatiesrus. The primary focus was on tackling drug smuggling, undocumented immigration, and other forms of cross-border crime.
The operation saw the involvement of multiple divisions, such as Border Police, Border Intelligence, and the Stock Theft and Endangered Species unit, all working in collaboration to combat crime along the border. They were further supported by SANParks and the Border Management Agency, under the leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Adrian Riddles.
The coordinated efforts resulted in numerous actions, including compliance checks, vehicle checkpoints, and routine border patrols. “Four vehicle checkpoints (VCPs) were conducted on the Van Zylsrus road and the Upington/Rietfontein roads, during which 229 vehicles and 674 persons were stopped and searched,” said Sergeant Sam.
During the operation, law enforcement officials carried out 33 compliance checks and issued several fines related to traffic violations, gambling, and liquor offences. The police also confiscated drugs, including dagga, and arrested an undocumented person for violating immigration laws.
Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, the provincial commissioner of the Northern Cape, stressed the importance of effective cross-border policing in controlling smuggling and other crimes. She reiterated the police force’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of both countries through continued vigilance and cooperation.
The successful outcome of this operation highlights the benefits of joint efforts between South Africa and Botswana in addressing cross-border crime, setting a precedent for future collaboration in maintaining security along shared borders.
