Operation Vala Umgodi removes drugs from the streets in the Northern Cape

With more boots on the ground, Operation Vala Umgodi disruptive operations continues to stamp the authority of the state in the Frances Baard and Namakwa Districts.

The multi-disciplinary team, consisting of Limpopo Border Police, Cape Town Tactical Response Team, Pretoria Public Order Police, Cape Town Public Order Police, Paarl Public Order Police, The South African National Defence Force and Department Of Home Affairs recently arrested suspects for various crimes including illegal mining, driving under the influence of alcohol, possession of drugs, and undocumented persons.

On Sunday, 17 March 2024, members operationalised intelligence driven information, and arrested three suspects, age 27, 42 and 52 for possession of drugs as well as a 35 year old suspect for driving under the influence of alcohol. Fines for traffic violations valued at R4250.00 were issued in Galeshewe.

Members confiscated mandrax, crystal meth, nyaope, dagga and cash believed to be the proceeds of crime.

In Kleinzee, on Monday, 18 March 2024, eight (8) undocumented persons between the ages of 23 and 51 years old were arrested and fines valued at R 3 000.00 were issued for road traffic violations. Mining implements, believed to be used in the commission of illicit mining was confiscated.

On Tuesday, 19 March 2024, members arrested four (4) suspects between the ages of 21 and 45 years old for illegal mining in Kleinzee and confiscated a toy – gun. A 38 year old suspect was arrested for dealing in liquor without a licence and cash believed to be the proceeds of crime was confiscated.

Operations will continue unabated.