SAPS and Lesotho Police Chiefs Meet Over Alleged Illegal Military Camps

In a bid to address cross-border security concerns, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, led a high-profile delegation to Maseru, Lesotho, for a meeting with his Lesotho counterpart, Advocate Borotho Matsoso. The discussions, held on Monday, focused on the sensitive and complex issue of alleged illegal Basotho military training camps reportedly operating within South Africa.

Allegations Prompt Urgent Bilateral Engagement

The allegations, which have drawn concern at the highest levels of law enforcement in both countries, center on reports that unauthorized military-style camps are being run by Basotho nationals on South African soil. Such activities, if confirmed, could have far-reaching security, diplomatic, and legal implications for both nations, who share a long, porous border and deep socio-economic ties.

Senior Security Officials Join Strategic Dialogue

The South African delegation, underlining the seriousness of the issue, included several senior security and intelligence officials. Alongside General Masemola were:

• Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili: Deputy National Commissioner of Policing and Co-chair of the National Joints Operational and Intelligence Structure (NATJOINTS)

• Head of Interpol in South Africa

• Senior Officer from SAPS Crime Intelligence

• Senior Officer from the Department of Home Affairs (DHA)

This multi-agency approach reflects the cross-cutting nature of the alleged camps, which involve not just law enforcement, but also border security, immigration, and international policing collaboration.

The Lesotho side was equally well represented. Advocate Matsoso was joined by:

• Deputy Commissioner Likhama Moqhebi: Responsible for operations

• Senior officers from the Crime Intelligence Unit, Specialised Operations, and Detectives Unit of the Lesotho Mounted Police Service

SAPS Shares Progress on Intelligence Operations

During the meeting, General Masemola provided an update to Advocate Matsoso on the progress of SAPS crime intelligence-driven operations in relation to the allegations. While the SAPS statement did not disclose operational specifics, the update demonstrates transparency and a willingness to collaborate on issues that may affect both countries’ national security.

The Importance of Regional Security Cooperation

The bilateral engagement in Maseru highlights the importance of cross-border intelligence sharing and coordination in Southern Africa. With longstanding challenges such as illegal border crossings, organized crime, and now the specter of illegal paramilitary activity, both countries recognize the need for joint strategies and swift communication.

Next Steps and Continued Collaboration

Both police forces reaffirmed their commitment to further collaboration and intelligence sharing. Ongoing investigations are expected to determine the veracity of the allegations and, if necessary, guide coordinated responses to neutralize any illegal activities.

The meeting signals a broader commitment to stability and the rule of law within the region. Such efforts are vital not only for national security but also for sustaining the positive relationship and mutual trust between South Africa and Lesotho.