NC police operation bids to curb maritime-related crimes
THE NORTHERN Cape police made several arrests and confiscated dangerous weapons and various illegal drugs during Operation Phakisa.
Police spokesperson, Captain Olebogeng Tawana, said that the operation, which aimed to curb maritime-related crimes, was conducted with different government departments from October 4 until yesterday.
“The operation was a multidisciplinary approach by different government departments, such as the Department of Environmental Affairs and Nature Conservation, the Department of Mineral Resources, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, the State Security Agency and Customs,” said Tawana.
He said that drugs with an estimated street value of R6 000 were seized and that stolen items were also recovered during the operation.
“During the operation, a number of people were arrested for various crimes such as possession of rock lobsters out of season, possession of drugs, possession of dangerous weapons and illegal mining.
“Officials also visited mines as well as abalone farms and conducted vehicle checks. Drugs, with an estimated street value of R6 000, were confiscated and a stolen trailer was also recovered.
“The impact of this intensified and intelligence driven operation was greatly appreciated by the Cluster Commander of Namakwa, Brigadier Francis Hender. He applauded the commitment and teamwork shown by the members of the SAPS and other departments throughout the entire operation,” Tawana said.