The number of people arrested in connection with diamond dealing in the Northern and Western Cape during the final phase of Operation Solitaire on Wednesday had reached 33 by late afternoon, police said.
Earlier on Wednesday, National Police Commissioner Jackie Selebi said 25 people were arrested in the early hours in Port Nolloth, Kimberley, Cape Town and Upington.
More than R2-million in cash and 67 diamonds were confiscated, Selebi said.
During earlier phases of the operation, launched in September 2000, ”transactions” also involving more than R2-million were conducted, while 533 uncut diamonds worth about R500 000, R250 000 in cash and two luxury vehicles were confiscated.
The intelligence-driven operation was conducted by members of the police’s diamond and gold branch and crime intelligence division.
The suspects would appear in the Springbok Magistrate’s Court on Thursday on more than 200 charges of dealing in diamonds, and other alternative charges, Selebi said.
A statement issued by police in the Northern Cape later on Wednesday said eight more people had been arrested, bringing the total to 33.
Investigations were continuing and more arrests were expected.
Safety and Security Minister Charles Nqakula referred to the operation in the National Council of Provinces during debate on his budget vote on Wednesday, and congratulated everyone involved for the sterling work they had done.
Their success sent a clear message to criminals of every type and kind, he said.
”An important element of the successes we register against crime is the support we continue to get from our communities.
”Operation Solitaire has received tremendous support from many civilians in the spirit of the partnerships between our communities and the South African criminal justice system,” Nqakula said. – Sapa