By Teboho Moloi
REITZ — A pre-dawn crime blitz in Reitz has landed 24 undocumented foreign nationals behind bars.The group — 15 Malawian men, five Malawian women and four Basotho men — were arrested in the early hours of Thursday and will appear in the Reitz Magistrate’s Court today, 09 October 2026, to face charges under the Immigration Act.
Police said the operation targeted Reitz’s most violent and stubborn crimes.
Spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said the area had seen a spike in assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, murder, house and business burglaries, damage to essential infrastructure, copper cable theft and stock theft in the last quarter.
“Members, in a proactive measure to address these challenges and prevent further criminal activities, were joined by Nketoana Local Municipality officials and the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Unit,” Mophiring said.
The joint team — SAPS, municipal officials and Home Affairs immigration officers — swept the town in the early hours, checking suspects and premises linked to priority crimes.The 24 arrests were the result.
Mophiring said the police would not back off.
“We remain committed to working together with relevant stakeholders to prevent and combat crime. Through collaborative efforts, we can create safer communities and save lives.”
The suspects remain in custody pending their court appearance.
