Northern Cape Operation Phakisa Nets Undocumented Migrants and Illicit Goods

A coordinated multi-agency law enforcement operation in the Northern Cape, known as Operation Phakisa, resulted in the arrest of two undocumented individuals and the seizure of various illicit goods, reinforcing South Africa’s commitment to combating cross-border crime and protecting its marine environment.

Operation Phakisa: A Multi-Agency Response to Cross-Border Crime

Between 28 July and 1 August 2025, the South African Police Service (SAPS), in close collaboration with the Department of Home Affairs, South African Revenue Service (Customs), and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, conducted extensive security and compliance operations at the Vioolsdrift and Nakop border posts—critical transit points along South Africa’s northern borders.

Operation Phakisa’s primary focus was to disrupt and prevent cross-border criminal activities including drug trafficking, illegal firearms smuggling, and the circulation of other illicit commodities. During the operation, law enforcement officers screened and searched approximately 2,700 individuals and 1,900 vehicles to identify illegal activities and violations.

Arrests and Enforcement Actions

The operation led to the arrest of two undocumented migrants whose legal status is currently under review as they remain in custody. These arrests underscore the challenges South Africa faces in managing border security and immigration enforcement amid increasing regional mobility.

Beyond human trafficking and immigration violations, several businesses in the vicinity were subjected to compliance inspections. Authorities confiscated illegal goods suspected of being involved in illicit trade, though specific details on the quantities or types of goods were not disclosed.

Additionally, law enforcement officials registered seven cases relating to contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act. These violations incurred fines totaling R18,500 and pertain to unlawful activities threatening South Africa’s marine ecosystems and the sustainability of the ocean economy.

Protecting the Ocean Economy and Community Safety

Operation Phakisa represents a broader government initiative aimed at safeguarding the integrity of South Africa’s coastal regions and ocean resources. Within SAPS, the operation forms part of a multi-agency framework designed to address crimes impacting the marine environment—including illegal fishing, poaching, and environmental degradation—while also tackling associated criminal networks.

“The successful execution of Operation Phakisa highlights the importance of interdepartmental cooperation in enforcing national legislation, particularly in vulnerable border and coastal areas,” said a SAPS spokesperson. “Through collaborative efforts, law enforcement agencies are better equipped to disrupt criminal enterprises that threaten community safety, marine biodiversity, and economic sustainability.”

Strengthening Border Security and Environmental Protection

The Northern Cape operation is part of a series of ongoing interventions aimed at bolstering border management and maritime law enforcement. By targeting illegal activities at strategic border posts such as Vioolsdrift and Nakop, authorities seek to stem the flow of contraband and undocumented migrants, reinforcing national security.

Moreover, the focus on the Marine Living Resources Act aligns with South Africa’s commitment to preserving its rich marine biodiversity and supporting the ocean economy, which is vital for jobs, food security, and ecological balance.

The Role of Interdepartmental Collaboration

Operation Phakisa exemplifies the critical role of integrated action between SAPS and other government bodies such as Home Affairs, SARS Customs, and environmental agencies. This synergy enhances information sharing, resource allocation, and operational efficiency—key factors in addressing complex crimes that span multiple sectors and jurisdictions.

The operation also serves as a platform for continuous capacity building and strategic planning to respond to evolving threats in border and marine environments.

Looking Ahead

South African authorities have pledged to maintain and expand such collaborative operations, ensuring a robust response to cross-border crimes and environmental offenses. With the increasing interconnectedness of security, immigration, and environmental protection challenges, operations like Phakisa are vital for achieving sustainable governance of the country’s borders and coastal resources.