The Free State Police conducted a multidisciplinary roadblock along the R26 (Ficksburg–Bethlehem) and R70 (Rodendal) routes in the Thabo Mofutsanyana District, under the Setsoto Local Municipality.
As part of the continuous #SaferFestiveSeason operations, the roadblock was held with the aim of strengthening crime prevention efforts and enforcing the law. The South African Police Service, led by Colonel Fouché, was supported by the South African National Defence Force, the Border Management Authority and Provincial Traffic Officers.
The operation focused on curbing illegal firearms, stock theft, stolen motor vehicles, road traffic violations, and undocumented persons. During the course of the operation, several unroadworthy vehicles and incidents of non-compliance with traffic regulations were addressed. Police also conducted stop-and-search actions on vehicles and commuters for any illegal items. A taxi trailer was seized for non-compliance with the Road Traffic Act, and a number of drivers were issued with fines for failing to adhere to traffic rules.
The four-hour roadblock was successful, with motorists appreciating the increased visibility of law enforcement officers during the festive period. Many expressed the need for regular operations of this nature, especially in areas such as Ficksburg, which is situated close to the border.
Meanwhile in Ficksburg town, a group of women from Meqheleng staged a picket outside the Ficksburg Magistrate’s Court. They were demonstrating against a man accused of burning a minor in an alleged attempt to “remove dark spirits”. He was arrested along with the child’s mother.
The demonstration also aimed to raise awareness on Gender-Based Violence and issues affecting women.