Operation Siyaqoqa: Tackling Cross-Border Crime Between South Africa And Lesotho
- Code-named "Siyaqoqa," this five-day operation took place along the border between South Africa and Lesotho.
- A total of 72 arrests were made, involving charges such as possession of stolen goods, drunk driving, illegal immigration, and firearm possession.
- Authorities focused on illegal border crossings, particularly along the Caledon River, where makeshift bridges had been constructed.
FREE STATE - In an effort to crack down on cross-border crimes and unauthorized crossings, the South African Police Service (SAPS) launched a targeted intelligence-led operation along the Lesotho border. This initiative wasn’t just about making arrests—it was about sending a strong message that illegal activities won’t be tolerated in this region. The operation was meticulously planned and executed with precision, aiming to restore order and protect communities on both sides of the border.
The operation yielded significant results, including the recovery of stolen vehicles and livestock. In addition to these recoveries, 72 arrests were made for various offenses. These included possession of suspected stolen goods, driving under the influence, possession of dangerous weapons, illegal firearm possession, and violations of immigration laws. Each arrest represents a step forward in ensuring safety and security for everyone in the area.
Recovering Stolen Vehicles from Lesotho
One of the major successes of Operation Siyaqoqa was the recovery of vehicles stolen from Gauteng that had ended up in Lesotho. Here’s a breakdown of some of the vehicles recovered:
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- A Ford Ranger that was stolen back in March 2021 in Berea.
- A Toyota Fortuner stolen in May 2024 in Krugersdorp.
- A BMW stolen way back in January 2017 in Midrand.
- A Toyota Quantum stolen in Shoshanguve in May 2021. The vehicle’s engine and VIN numbers had been tampered with in an attempt to conceal its origins.
The Border Between Lesotho and South Africa
Earlier this year, President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the hard work of South African border control efforts. While progress has been made, there’s still much to do. As the video below shows, there’s no physical barrier or fence dividing the two countries. Instead, the Caledon River acts as the natural boundary. People often walk freely between the two nations, using makeshift bridges or rafts to cross the river.
During Operation Siyaqoqa, law enforcement confiscated or destroyed several man-made structures used for illegal crossings. These included makeshift bridges, rafts, hundreds of sandbags, and wooden logs. The goal was to make it more difficult for individuals to cross the border illegally, thereby reducing crime and enhancing national security.
Recovery of Stolen Livestock
While patrolling the area near Botshabelo, the operation team came across stray cattle. Upon investigation, they discovered that these cattle had been stolen from Dewetsdorp in August 2024. Five cattle were confiscated, and further follow-up by Dewetsdorp police led to the arrest of a male suspect and the recovery of nine stolen sheep. This part of the operation not only helped return stolen property to its rightful owners but also sent a clear message to would-be thieves: we’re watching, and we’ll bring you to justice.
R4.2 Million Worth of Drugs Intercepted at Lebombo Border
In related news, Briefly News reported that a Mozambican national is set to appear in court on July 1, 2024, facing charges of attempting to smuggle crystal meth worth R4.2 million into South Africa. Authorities caught the 36-year-old in possession of 17,000 grams of the drug, hidden in a secret compartment of a taxi at the Lebombo Border. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the arrest, emphasizing the importance of such operations in protecting South Africans from dangerous substances.
Operation Siyaqoqa is just one example of how South African authorities are stepping up their game to combat cross-border crime. By working together and staying vigilant, law enforcement is making strides toward creating safer communities for all.
