61 undocumented foreign nationals arrested in Peddie operation

A multi-agency operation in Ngqushwa and Peddie resulted in the arrest of 61 undocumented foreign nationals, according to the Eastern Cape Missing Person and Trafficking Unit.

The coordinated operation involved the Department of Employment and Labour, Ngqushwa Traffic Service, Home Affairs immigration officials, the Amathole Rapid Response Team for Trafficking in Persons, National Prosecuting Authority and Eastern Cape Liquor Board.

The departments of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and Agriculture also participated alongside SAPS.

The unit said all 61 foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly contravening immigration legislation.

Another foreign national was arrested after allegedly being found in possession of an unlicensed firearm.

Further arrests were made for alleged contraventions of the Liquor Act. Traffic officers also issued 12 fines with a combined value of R12,500.

The Eastern Cape Missing Person and Trafficking Unit said the operation demonstrated the importance of cooperation between government departments and law-enforcement agencies when addressing crime, illegal activities and concerns relating to human trafficking.

Authorities did not provide further details about the charges or when those arrested would appear in court.