Emanguzi: The task team deployed in Emanguzi continues to deal decisively with those involved with cross-border crimes north of KwaZulu-Natal. In recent operations, police have arrested five vehicle smugglers and recovered 20 vehicles of different makes, including 11 bakkies, seven SUVs, a minibus, and a sedan, during separate intelligence-driven operations.
According to South African Police Service, investigations reveal that the recovered vehicles were stolen in and around Durban Central, Durban North, Westville, Chatsworth, Pinetown, and Umhlali. In the latest operation, the team acted on information about a vehicle destined to cross the Kosi Bay border. The vehicle was intercepted on Monday, June 9, 2025, leading to the arrest of one suspect found with various fraudulent documents intended for border crossing.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect may be linked to vehicle insurance fraud. Investigations are ongoing. A national intervention involving SAPS members from various disciplines, including crime intelligence, proactive and reactive policing units, and detectives, has been established to prevent and combat cross-border crimes along the northern border of KZN. These crimes include vehicle theft, house and business robberies, vehicle hijacking, murder, and attempted murder.