By Thokozani Mazibuko
The National Commissioner of Police, Vusie Manoma Masango, announced the successful dismantling of the notorious Facata syndicate at the senior police officers and civilian staff conference held at the Matsapha Police Academy on January 23, 2024.
The Commissioner revealed that through collaboration with various sectors of society, law enforcement officials have arrested a total of 42 suspects believed to be involved in defrauding innocent emaSwati of their hard-earned money.
The conference, attended by Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, highlighted the importance of community involvement in supporting police efforts to combat crime.
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“We wish to express our gratitude to the members of the public and our strategic stakeholders for their unrelenting support,” said Commissioner Masango.
“This collaboration aligns with our national slogans, ‘Nawe Uliphoyisa’ and ‘Bucala Yindzaba Yetfu Sonkhe,’ which emphasize that every citizen plays a crucial role in maintaining safety and security in our communities.”
The Facata syndicate, characterized by its sophisticated fraud schemes, preyed on vulnerable members of society, leaving many victims devastated.
The collaborative efforts between police and the community have proven fruitful, with ongoing investigations expected to uncover additional leads and apprehend more suspects.
While the total monetary value of the fraud is still under investigation, the police have reassured the public that they are committed to pursuing justice for all victims.
“Our work is far from over,” Masango emphasized. “We will continue to work tirelessly to hold accountable those who seek to exploit our citizens.”
The police have urged emaSwati to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
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They reiterated that community involvement is critical in the fight against crime, highlighting the importance of communication and cooperation between citizens and law enforcement.
It is worth mentioning that as the investigation continues, the police have pledged to provide regular updates to the public.
The success of this operation serves as a reminder of the power of community engagement in creating safer environments for all emaSwati.