Nelspruit — Over 1 700 Mozambicans illegally crossed the border into South Africa in January and will be deported soon.

The South African National Defence Force's (SANDF) Group 33 launched operations in Mpumalanga and Northern Province to curb the increased flow of illegal immigrants into the country.

"January is the peak time for illegals to cross into the country, which is why we launched the operations," said Group 33 spokeswoman Lize Pienaar on Wednesday.

A total of 1 731 illegal immigrants were arrested, 22 of whom were found inside the Kruger National Park.

Operations focused on Nkomazi area and Nkomazi toll gate on the N4 highway, as well as the Kruger National Park, and Phalaborwa area of Northern Province.

Meanwhile the army confiscated 11 illegal firearms, 166 rounds of ammunition, 21kg of dagga, 267 dagga plants and unlicensed alcohol worth R204 500 during a clean-up operation in the Nkomazi area.

Seven stolen vehicles were also found and 67 suspects were arrested, said Pienaar.

Commandos from Barberton, Belfast, Loskop, Nelspruit and White River together with police also carried out a total of 243 farm and 40 town patrols in January.

A total of 54 stolen livestock and other stolen goods were recovered during the patrols.

In a separate operation 47 suspects have been arrested in the Northern Province for crimes ranging from theft to intimidation.

The provincial police, army and traffic department joined forces in Operation Tsipa and have already held 83 roadblocks.

Twelve vehicles, four firearms and rounds of ammunition were confiscated, while a dagga field worth an estimated R1,2 million was destroyed.

Two unlicensed drivers were arrested and 1 255 summonses were issued for traffic offences.

Police spokesman Commissioner Calvin Sengani said the operation was a success and that several similar operations would be held throughout the province over the next few months.