In a highly coordinated early morning operation on Tuesday, South African law enforcement agencies descended on Durban CBD, resulting in the arrest of 123 suspected illegal immigrants. The operation, involving the South African Police Service (Saps), Metro Police, Correctional Services, Home Affairs, and other agencies, also uncovered counterfeit US dollars amounting to approximately R4.1 million.
The raid, targeting hijacked buildings notorious for illegal occupation, saw officials comb through six locations, one of which was a municipality-owned property illegally housing residents. Authorities apprehended an individual suspected of profiting from renting out units to illegal occupants.
In addition to the arrests, the operation yielded significant seizures, including 117 rounds of various calibre ammunition, large quantities of illicit liquor, and illegal connections to water and electricity in two of the raided buildings. A separate arrest was made when a suspect was caught with cocaine, crystal meth, and undisclosed cash.
“The aim of this operation was to assert state authority and tackle the growing issue of illegal occupation and activities in Durban CBD,” said Colonel Robert Netshiunda the Saps spokesperson.
WATCH LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER COMB DURBAN CBD video courtesy of X
This raid happened today in Durban, South Africa, where more than 100 illegal immigrants were detained.
— Hopewell Chin’ono (@daddyhope) August 27, 2024
This is what I always emphasise, the real solution to ending illegal immigration lies in addressing the unresolved political issues in neighbouring countries.
Over US$100,000… pic.twitter.com/p59m8omx5S
The crackdown underscores ongoing efforts to combat crime in the area, with authorities continuing to search for individuals believed to be in possession of illegal firearms.
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Illegal immigration has been a contentious issue in South Africa, with debates over its socio-economic impacts and law enforcement challenges. This operation has been seen as a significant step in addressing these concerns, as authorities remain vigilant in enforcing immigration laws and maintaining public safety.
This operation comes just days ahead of the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, presenting the quarterly crime statistics on Friday, 30 August 2024. The report will reflect on crimes recorded in the last quarter of the previous financial year (1 January 2024 – 31 March 2024) and the first quarter of this year (1 April 2024 – 30 June 2024).
This is a developing story . . .
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