Fourteen foreign nationals were arrested during law enforcement agencies raid in a farm which operates as a den of drug smuggling and cannabis cultivation networks in Babanango on Wednesday morning.
The Communication Unit from Ulundi Local Municipality announced that Ulundi Municipality Crime Prevention Unit,in collaboration with the South African Police Service(SAPS),the Department of Home Affairs(Immigration),and other law enforcement agencies,has successfuly conducted a major operation at Springfield Farm,under Babanango,targeting one of the region's largest known drug smuggling and cannabis cultivation networks.
According to the municipality's statement,this site has been identified as a key source of illegal cannabis production and distribution, supplying large volumes to various cities across KwaZulu-Natal and beyond.The raid,which took place early this morning,forms part of Ulundi Municipality's continued efforts to combat drug abuse,organised crime,and threats to community safety.
The municipality confirmed that a group of foreign nationals was arrested during a raid and immigration officials were busy with them,and the municipality retaliated that is not going allow any illegal activities to operate in their area.
"A total of 14 suspects have been arrested,all of whom have been identified as foreign nationals from the Kingdom of Eswatini(formerly Swaziland).Immigration officials are working closely with the police to process the suspects and investigate any cross border criminal links.
This joint operation reinforces the Municipality's zero tolerance approach to criminal activity.Ulundi will not be a refuge from drug trafficking or any other form of organised crime,"the statement said.
The statement added that due to the scale and public interest in this operation,media coverage was encouraged and will continue to play a vital role in raising awareness about the dangers of drug related activities in rural and urban communities.
The statement concluded by saying,Ulundi Municipality remains committed to working with all law enforcement stakeholders and community members to safeguard the region and ensure long term safety,security,and social wellbeing.