Four individuals, aged between 20 and 28, were sentenced to six months’ imprisonment by the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, August 11.

They were charged with contravening the Immigration Act. According to Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, after serving their sentences, they will be deported to their countries of origin.

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The individuals were arrested by members of Operation Vala Umgodi on the Karino Road on July 25. They were identified as Anna Jaime, Alex Ndlovu, Valdo Nkuna and Atalia Feliciano Malule.

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“Police investigators worked with the Department of Home Affairs to verify the suspects’ status in the country,” said Nonyane-Mpe, who added that they were arrested during a routine stop-and-search that aimed to curb illegal immigration and enhance community safety.