A recent operation by Free State authorities led to the discovery of dozens of people being unsafely transported, including 28 undocumented foreign nationals from Lesotho.
Arrive Alive reported that the truck was stopped on the N1 south of Bloemfontein. The discovery of the occupants was after authorities heard suspicious noises during inspection.
FOREIGN NATIONALS AMONG 51 PEOPLE FOUND IN TRUCK
On Sunday, 22 December 2024, a roadside checkpoint was conducted by Provincial Inspectors Moses-Mqekelana and Montoeli. One of the vehicles stopped that day was a truck with two trailers. Suspicious noises were heard in the rear trailer and the driver was instructed to open the curtain side. Inspectors found 47 adults and four children between the ages of nine months and five years being transported unsafely. The passengers were disembarked at a nearby filling station and police were contacted.
Police found that 28 of the 51 passengers were foreign nationals who were undocumented. The 26 men and two females were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act. The truck driver was also charged for transporting people illegally without a an operating license. His vehicle was impounded.
WARNING FROM FREE STATE MEC
The Free State MEC, Jabu Mbalula, issued a stern warning to truck operators following the discovery and arrests of foreign nationals. He said: “We advise truck operators to constantly monitor their vehicles to prevent such illegal operations by drivers. Vigilance is crucial in preventing these types of incidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.”
FREE STATE SAFER FESTIVE SEASON OPERATIONS
OFM reported on 23 December 2024 that this was one of many crackdowns on illegal transportation and immigration in the Free State. This is part of the province’s Safer Festive Season operations, with the government collaborating with law enforcement agencies.
Over a hundred unlicensed drivers and illegal immigrants have been arrested since the start of the operation. A foreign national was reportedly found hiding in a bus’ engine compartment, which was headed to Zimbabwe.
The Deputy Minister of Police, Cassel Mathale, said authorities will ensure the safety of all road users. He said: “I believe South Africa will experience a wonderful festive season, not just for locals but also for visitors.”
WHAT ARE YOUR VIEWS ON THE CONSTANT REPORTS ON ILLEGAL TRANSPORTATION OF FOREIGN NATIONALS?
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