South African Police Intensify Investigation into Allegations of Basotho Nationals' Militarily Training on Local Farms

Strategic Insights -

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced the intensification of its investigation into allegations that Basotho nationals are undergoing militarily training on South African farms as part of a growing land reclamation campaign. This decision was made during a Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting, where National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola met with all nine provincial commissioners to discuss crime combatting efforts in the country. The investigation was sparked by comments made by Lesotho Police Chief Advocate Borotho Matsoso, which were high on the agenda during the meeting.

Key Takeaways:

  • The South African Police Service (SAPS) has intensified its operations into the investigation of allegations that Basotho nationals are undergoing militarily training on South African farms.
  • The investigation was sparked by comments made by Lesotho Police Chief Advocate Borotho Matsoso, which were discussed during a Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting.
  • The National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has assured the public that the safety and security of South Africans is of paramount importance and that anyone found committing illegal acts will face the full might of the law.
  • The DPCI's Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit has been roped in to investigate the allegations, and various searches have been undertaken at identified farms, but no evidence has been found to date.
  • The SAPS has urged South Africans not to panic or worry as police from both countries remain on high alert.
  • The SAPS National Commissioner has reached out to the Lesotho Police Chief to discuss the allegations and coordinate efforts to investigate the existence of such camps.
  • Intelligence structures and operatives are on the ground to establish facts and ensure the safety and security of South Africans.

Statistics:

  • 9 provinces were represented during the Board of Commissioners (BOC) meeting to discuss crime combatting efforts in South Africa.
  • 1 preliminary report from the SAPS Crime Intelligence Division confirmed that intelligence structures have highlighted their operations to investigate allegations made.
  • 1 DPCI's Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit has been roped in to investigate the allegations.
  • 0 evidence of militarily training camps has been found on identified farms to date.

Sources:

  • SAnews.gov.za
  • SAPS - South African Police Service Official Press Release