The South African Police Services (SAPS) have reported that they have arrested more than 598 suspects in the Tshwane area in connection with various crimes during the Easter holidays.
“Under the leadership of Brigadier Samuel Thine, the Tshwane police officers conducted comprehensive law- enforcement activities throughout the whole area the Easter holidays,” said Warrant Officer Johan van Dyk in a media statement released on Easter Monday.
“These operations were conducted in collaboration with various agencies, including the Department of Home Affairs, Labour, Gauteng Traffic Department, Crime Prevention Wardens, Community Policing Forums and elected Ward councilors,” he said.
“Additionally, members from different SAPS stations and units operating within the Tshwane policing area also played a significant role in these operations,” said van Dyk.
Van Dyk explained that the operations involved high visibility patrols at crime hotspots, compliance inspections and raids on illicit liquor outlets.
According to van Dyk, 289 individuals were arrested for offences ranging from assault, housebreaking, public drinking, driving under the influence of alcohol and armed robbery during the police’s routine and standard operations.
“During Operation Shanela conducted in the Akasia area, detective teams successfully apprehended 251people for crimes that include gender- based violence, murder, armed robbery and rape,” he said.
Van Dyk also said a total of. 184 625 ml of liquor was confiscated in the Akasia area and will be destroyed pending the finalisation of the criminal cases against the suspects.
“43 undocumented immigrants were detained for the purpose of deportation pending the conclusion of the legal process against them,” said van Dyk.
He said one person was arrested for possession of 24 ziplock plastic bags of dagga.
“Throughout the operation a total of 1640 people and 615 vehicles were inspected by the police with 57 vehicles being checked for stolen status, resulting in the confiscation of 2 vehicles for tampered engine numbers.
Van Dyk pointed out that 13 Aarto infringement notices to the amount of R8 950 were issued.
“Brigadier Thine extends gratitude to all stakeholders for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the citizens over the Easter season.