On Friday morning, the members of Kroonstad SAPS held a road-block, an operation called "N1 Highway High Density Operation" as part of the Safer Friday’s initiative. The operation was led by the Fezile Dabi District Vispol Commander Brigadier Mapulane Mbeloane and Station Commander of Kroonstad, Col Morne De Wet.

This road-block operation was jointly conducted by members of Kroonstad SAPS, Provincial Traffic Department and Moqhaka Local Municipality.

Just a few minutes of visibility, the vigilant members stopped a white VW Crafter motor vehicle. Upon searching it they discovered 22 boxes each containing 12 x 100 packets of cigarettes. The estimated street value of the cigarettes is R268 000-00. The suspect was questioned and could not give proof of purchase nor an explanation of the goods found in his possession.

It is believed the cigarettes were meant to be transported from Germiston to Bloemfontein. The suspected driver, aged 35, was arrested and charged for possession of counterfeit goods.

In addition, the following fines were issued; 23 traffic fines valued at R10 300 and two (2) under Animal Act. About 392 vehicles were searched,

864 people searched, while about 22 vehicles were tested. Three (3) illegal immigrants aged between 30 to 38 years were also arrested.

All four (4) arrested suspects are expected to appear before the Kroonstad Magistrate's Court soon.

The Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General BB Motswenyane commended the members for their hard work and efforts invested in the success of this operation.

"If we were able to crack such successes in less than 5 hours, then it shows it’s not impossible to root out all criminal elements in no time," concluded the ProvincialCommissioner.

Source: South African Police Service