| 2025/03/24 |
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Media Statement FREE STATE – The South African Police Service, in collaboration with external stakeholders and Lesotho law enforcement agencies, has successfully concluded Operation Maletswai, a joint cross-border operation conducted last week. The operation focused on combating cross-border crimes, including vehicle theft, stock theft, and compliance violations. Roadblocks were strategically placed along key routes on both sides of the border, including busy roads and mountainous areas inside Lesotho. Additionally, compliance inspections were carried out at second-hand goods shops in Bethlehem, Ficksburg, Harrismith, Bohlokong, and Phuthaditjhaba. The Endangered Species and Stock Theft Units also conducted inspections in Fouriesburg, Ficksburg, Ladybrand, Wepener and Bloemfontein. A total of 105 suspects were arrested, including 42 undocumented persons. The police and traffic officials further issued 259 fines for various traffic and compliance violations. The Vehicle Crime Investigation Units (VCIU), working closely with Lesotho vehicle investigators and private entities, conducted targeted searches for stolen vehicles. Their efforts extended from major roads in Maseru to Mohale’s Hoek, as well as the mountainous regions of Mokhotlong. As a result, high-value stolen vehicles—including Ford Rangers, Isuzu pickups, Toyota Hilux bakkies, Volkswagen Amaroks, Toyota Quantums, and Toyota Avanza models—were seized. Among these, one Toyota Avanza was identified as having been stolen in April 2007 in Brighton Beach. The success of Operation Maletswai highlights the strong and effective collaboration between SAPS, the Lesotho Mounted Police Service and various private-sector partners. These partnerships remain critical in ensuring the safety and security of communities on both sides of the border. Ends
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