The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) welcomes the successful police operations conducted in the vicinity of Prince Albert and Oudtshoorn. The enormous quantities of illicit drugs and alcohol that were seized reveal the true extent of the problem.
On 8 August 2026 on the Prince Albert Road, the Central Karoo rapid response unit seized nearly 39 kg of dagga valued at approximately R310 000.
In De Rust, more than 660 litres of alcohol were seized at an unlicensed outlet, while the Dysselsdorp police confiscated 62 crates of beer and 20 containers of liquor during a sting operation.
The situation in Dysselsdorp is particularly concerning. The fact that cheap, illicit alcohol is readily available has a devastating impact on the community. It fuels domestic violence, child neglect, crime, public disorder and poverty. One-off operations are not enough. The area needs constant, visible law enforcement.
The police’s decision to monitor access and exit routes is a step in the right direction. It should, however, be a routine practice and not just a sporadic event.
The Municipality also has to do its part. Unlicensed liquor outlets are not only the police’s responsibility – municipal by-laws should also be strictly enforced.
The Freedom Front Plus calls on residents to report any suspicious drug and alcohol trade to the local police. This problem can only be resolved if the Municipality, community and police join hands.
One day of successful operations is good. Constant crime fighting is what the Klein Karoo needs, though.
