HONEYDEW – Honeydew police arrested 34 alleged illegal immigrants during their greenbelt operation. In full swing on Thursday 24 October from 3am, police together with JMPD, Londoloza Security, Gauteng Security, SRT Security and Danmar Security entered the informal settlements around the greenbelt area on Magnum and Johann roads.
Upon their arrival, squatters were still asleep and spokesperson of Honeydew SAPS Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs said that was the best time to catch the alleged illegal immigrants. “During the day most of them are at their workplaces and we would not catch them.”
Police were checking for immigrants without proper documentation and those whose passports had expired.
Jacobs said there was an increase in house break-ins, house and street robberies in the areas close to the informal settlements and weapons and stolen goods were also sought out during the operation. According to Jacobs, residents who have experienced break-ins and robberies have confirmed the criminals carried firearms and most fled in the direction of the informal settlements.
During their search, several cell phones were found which are suspected to have been stolen. Pangas and knives were also found.
If the alleged illegal immigrants are found not to be involved in any criminal activity, they will be deported to their countries of origin.
