According to SAPS statement: A bi-lateral operation between South Africa and Lesotho, dubbed ‘Operation Mhlonhlo’ has resulted in the arrest of four suspects in connection with theft of stock and 31 livestock were recovered in the process.
The operation, which ran for five days in the KwaZulu-Natal districts of Uthukela, Umgungundlovu and Harry Gwala, also led to the arrest of 105 suspects for various offences, inclusive of 58 undocumented foreign nationals.
During the operation, law enforcement officers from both countries conducted compliance raids at tuck shops, liquor outlets, supermarkets and shisanyamas where suspected stolen meat are expected to be sold.
The operation was conceived following growing crime trends were noticed at various towns in KwaZulu-Natal that are situated along the Lesotho borderline.
Bi-lateral operations are carried out in various intervals(in order to stop thieves who are targeting live stocks animals).
The nature of Operation Mhlonhlo is such that it comprises of various units within the police as well as other external stakeholders who bring about a different set of expertise which may assist in the overall success of the operation.
The arrested suspects during Operation Mhlonhlo have appeared in various courts in the three districts.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
