South African Police Destroy Makeshift Bridge at Beitbridge Border
Over 281,000 people have been apprehended since the deployment of border guards.
South African Police Destroy Makeshift Bridge at Beitbridge Border
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a decisive move to combat illegal mining and related criminal activities, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has demolished a makeshift bridge near the Beitbridge border with Zimbabwe.
The operation, conducted as part of the ongoing Operation Vala Umgodi, underscores the SAPS's commitment to safeguarding the nation's borders and preventing illicit crossings.
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The makeshift bridge, situated approximately 1 km east of the Beitbridge Port of Entry, was discovered by border policing units during a routine patrol.
It was reportedly used to smuggle goods and people between the two countries. The SAPS's Explosive Section was deployed to safely dismantle the bridge, given the approaching rainy season.
Operation Vala Umgodi, launched in December 2023, is a multi-agency initiative involving the SAPS, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE), the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), and other law enforcement agencies.
South African Police Destroy Makeshift Bridge at Beitbridge Border
It aims to address the rising incidence of illicit mining and border-related crimes in seven provinces: Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, and North West.
In recent operations, South African authorities have intensified efforts to intercept and arrest individuals attempting to enter the country illegally.
Over 281,000 people have been apprehended since the deployment of border guards. In a series of arrests between Thursday and Friday, 13 suspects were detained in Mooinooi, North West, for violating immigration laws. Additionally, 12 suspects were arrested in Stilfontein, where they were found engaged in illegal mining activities.
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The destruction of the makeshift bridge at Beitbridge and the ongoing operations against illicit mining and smuggling demonstrate the SAPS's unwavering commitment to enforcing the law and maintaining border security.
Through initiatives like Operation Vala Umgodi, South Africa aims to curb criminal activities that threaten the nation's safety and economic integrity.
