Pretoria: Intelligence structures from both the Lesotho Police and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are actively investigating reports concerning the existence of Lesotho military camps within South African borders. This investigation comes amidst heightened efforts by both nations to address and dismantle organised crime activities.
According to South African Police Service, the National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, convened with all nine provincial commissioners during the Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting. The agenda focused on crime combatting strategies and included discussions on the comments made by Lesotho Police Chief, Advocate Borotho Matsoso. The BOC, comprising Provincial Commissioners, Divisional Commissioners, and the Acting National Head for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), serves as SAPS's highest decision-making body.
During the BOC meeting, General Masemola expressed satisfaction with the ongoing efforts in dismantling organised crime syndicates across the country. A preliminary report from the crime intelligence division was reviewed, highlighting intensified operations to investigate and, if necessary, dismantle the alleged illegal activities.
The DPCI, also known as the HAWKS Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit, has been enlisted to conduct thorough investigations. To date, various searches conducted by CATS on identified farms have not uncovered any evidence of such camps.
Furthermore, General Masemola has engaged in discussions with the Lesotho Police Chief, Advocate Matsoso. Both parties agreed to deploy their respective law enforcement agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly. General Masemola reassured the public that the safety and security of South African residents are paramount, and any individuals found engaging in illegal activities will face legal consequences.
Intelligence operatives remain active on the ground, working diligently to verify the allegations. South Africans are advised to stay calm, as police forces from both nations maintain a vigilant stance to ensure public safety.