Police make 880 arrests in one week

This splendid effort was applauded by both the acting provincial police commissioner, Maj Gen Thulani Phahla, and the MEC for community safety, security and liaison, Vusi Shongwe.

“The police are working hard to reduce the level of crime,” said Phahla. He reiterated the call for communities to obey the law and report all criminal activities to authorities. He further cautioned the community to refrain from protecting family members who commit crime, arguing that whenever a crime has been committed, someone somewhere has either lost valuable property or has died.

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“I would like to urge the public to report their own family members to the police if they have committed a crime. Hiding them while you are aware the police are looking for them, simply means you are working in cahoots,” said Phahla.

He also extended his appreciation to members of the public who continuously support the police, providing information on criminal activities.

The 880 suspects were arrested for various criminal offences, including murder, rape, robberies, assault with an intent to inflict grievous bodily harm, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and stock theft. Shongwe said the arrests augers well for the fight against crime and it will also inspire communities to work with the police.

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“These arrests are a clear indication that with increased cooperation among stakeholders in the security cluster, great strides will be made to secure the communities. Our security agencies must continue working with the same vigour to ensure that bad elements are removed from society.”