About 2 676 people have been arrested since the launch of Operation Festive Season in the province.
Twenty seven people were apprehended for murder, 20 for rape, 277 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 961 for drug-related crimes, 223 for driving under the influence of alcohol, 220 for being in the country illegally, 105 for public violence, 62 for the possession of suspected stolen property, among others.
The operation was launched to help ensure the public’s safety this festive season, and is being executed in conjunction with various stakeholders. It started in October.
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The Operation Festive Season team confiscated a number of items such as 32 firearms (including nine rifles), 537 ammunition, 32 vehicles (some were stolen while others were used in the commission of crime), narcotic drugs, livestock and liquor.
Provincial police commissioner, Maj Gen Bethuel Mondli Zuma, is pleased with how the joint forces are working together to ensure a safer festive season for all.
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He also applauded the members for removing firearms that were in the hands of people who have no regard for human life.
“We will not be shy to take action against any wrongdoers to ensure that our people enjoy a safe and secure festive season,” said Zuma.