Operations across the country target violent crimes, theft, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms
BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MBABANE – The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) has made a series of key arrests between 2 and 10 September 2025, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to protecting communities and curbing criminal activity across the Kingdom.
Spokesperson for the REPS, Superintendent Thabo Dlamini, said the operations spanned multiple regions, including Gege, Manzini, Piggs Peak, Lavumisa, Mankayane, and Hluthi, targeting offences ranging from murder and attempted murder to theft, unlawful possession of firearms, and drug trafficking.
In Gege, REPS apprehended a 19-year-old teenager and a 21-year-old man from Piet Retief, South Africa, in connection with the murder of a 53-year-old Polodini resident. The victim had been discovered on 25 August 2025 with multiple stab and hack wounds. Superintendent Dlamini explained that cross-border cooperation played a critical role in swiftly identifying and arresting the suspects.
Manzini also witnessed significant arrests. A 36-year-old woman from Moneni was charged after allegedly stabbing her 40-year-old partner at a residence in Malindza. Meanwhile, two men aged 39 and 32 from Timbutini and Ezulwini, respectively, were charged with theft following a report by a businessman in Matsapha of E32 000 stolen from his vehicle.
In the northern town of Piggs Peak, a 23-year-old man from Nkomanzi was arrested for the attempted murder of a 29-year-old Siphocosini resident, who sustained multiple stab wounds at Pholani Bar on 3 September.
At the Lavumisa border gate, authorities intercepted 99.202 kg of dagga hidden between logs in a trailer, resulting in the arrest of a 35-year-old man. Superintendent Dlamini described the seizure as one of the largest recent drug confiscations at the border.
In Mankayane, a 33-year-old man was charged for possessing an unlicensed 9mm pistol and for the attempted murder of a 40-year-old man who sustained a gunshot wound to the hand near Mankayane Government Hospital. In Hluthi, an 18-year-old teenager from Bhejisa was arrested for unlawful possession of a 12-bore shotgun and live ammunition without a valid licence.
Superintendent Dlamini urged the public to remain vigilant and support law enforcement efforts. “The Royal Eswatini Police Service remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. We encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activity by dialling 999, 9999, or 112,” he said.
These arrests underscore REPS’ proactive stance in tackling crime and highlight the importance of continued cooperation between law enforcement and local communities to maintain peace and security throughout Eswatini.
(Courtesy Pic)
