A specialized task team from the South African Police Service (SAPS) deployed in Emanguzi has made significant progress in its ongoing crackdown on cross-border criminal activity in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
In a series of intelligence-driven operations over recent weeks, SAPS officers arrested five suspects allegedly involved in vehicle smuggling. The operations also led to the recovery of 20 stolen vehicles, including 11 bakkies, seven SUVs, a minibus, and a sedan. According to police, these vehicles were intercepted before they could be smuggled across the Kosi Bay border into Mozambique.
SAPS national spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, confirmed that the recovered vehicles had been reported stolen from several areas in and around Durban, including Durban Central, Durban North, Westville, Chatsworth, Pinetown, and Umhlali.
In the latest operation, conducted on Monday, 9 June 2025, police intercepted a vehicle suspected of being prepared for illegal export through the Kosi Bay border. One suspect was arrested and found in possession of fraudulent documentation intended to facilitate the cross-border movement of the stolen vehicle.
“Preliminary investigations suggest the suspect may be linked to vehicle insurance fraud. Further investigations are currently underway,” said Van Wyk.
She also highlighted the role of a national SAPS intervention unit in tackling cross-border crimes. This unit integrates resources and expertise from crime intelligence, detective services, and both proactive and reactive policing units.
The SAPS has identified a range of crimes associated with the KZN-Mozambique border region, including vehicle theft, house and business robberies, hijackings, as well as violent crimes such as murder and attempted murder.
Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling smuggling syndicates and protecting communities affected by organized cross-border crime.
No comments:
Post a Comment