Drugs, illicit cigarettes and fish seized in Northern Cape coastal operation - IOL

Northern Cape SAPS seized drugs, fish and cigarettes in a crime prevention raid.

Drugs, fish and cigarettes were seized during a four-day SAPS Operation Phakisa in the Northern Cape on Saturday. 

The multi-agency police operation, conducted between Tuesday and Saturday, targeted the coastal areas of Kleinzee, Port Nolloth, Alexander Bay, Hondeklip Bay and Koingnaas.The integrated operation focused on addressing criminal activities and non-compliance associated with coastal activities.

According to police reports. law enforcement teams conducted searches and inspections at various premises and locations, including harbours, launching sites, mining areas, camping sites, fish shops and restaurants. Police reported that a total of 100 vehicles and 166 individuals were searched, while multiple vessels were also subjected to inspections. Vehicle checkpoints were conducted as part of the operation to improve police visibility and compliance across the targeted areas.

Police said a significant amount of cash, believed to be the proceeds of crime, was also confiscated. The SAPS reported the following successes:

The Northern Cape Police reported that Illicit cigarettes valued at approximately R390,000 were seized during a roadblock.

The operation brought together SAPS specialised units and partner departments, including the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Environmental Affairs, Rural Development and Land Reform, and Customs.

Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended all SAPS members and participating law enforcement and government departments for their commitment and collaborative efforts in ensuring the success of the operation.

“The SAPS Northern Cape will continue to work closely with our law enforcement and government partners to address criminality, ensure compliance with the law and protect our communities and coastal resources. Those who engage in criminal activities will be identified and dealt with within the ambit of the law,” said Otola.