SAPS Easter crackdown yields numerous arrests and seized illegal firearms

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The South African Police Service (SAPS) conducted Easter operations that led to numerous arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms.

These actions were part of a broader initiative to strengthen crime-fighting measures and improve public safety during the holiday season.

During this period, various law enforcement agencies, under the leadership of the SAPS, executed a series of enhanced visibility patrols, established roadblocks, and engaged in focused crime-prevention initiatives.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe revealed that these proactive measures have successfully resulted in the apprehension of 15,840 suspects involved in a wide array of offenses, including serious crimes such as murder and rape.

“A significant operation resulted in the seizure of 132 illegal and unlicensed firearms along with 1,097 rounds of ammunition, predominantly in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, where 42 handguns were confiscated.

“In addition, a total of 747 dangerous weapons, including knives, were also removed from circulation. These actions represent a vital component of the broader strategy to combat violent crime in the region.

“In recent efforts to regulate alcohol sales more effectively, significant actions have been taken against illegal establishments.

“This past week, authorities successfully shut down a total of 532 illegal taverns and shebeens that were found to be in non-compliance with the liquor act.

SAPS operations significant haul

“This initiative highlights the ongoing commitment to enforcing regulations in the alcohol industry and ensuring public safety,” she explained.

Brig Mathe highlighted that there were a total of 773 individuals arrested for selling liquor without valid licenses.

She added, “The arrests were predominantly concentrated in two regions: KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), where 299 suspects were apprehended, and Mpumalanga, which saw 209 individuals arrested for the same offence.

“By shutting down illegal taverns and arresting those who sell liquor unlawfully, law enforcement is taking a firm stand against environments that enable crime to thrive.

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“Law enforcement operations recently apprehended a total of 1,419 individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol.

“The province of KwaZulu-Natal reported the highest number of arrests, totaling 588, followed closely by Mpumalanga with 199 arrests and the Eastern Cape, which recorded 197 arrests.”

Mathe stated that this initiative underscores the ongoing efforts to combat drunk driving and enhance road safety across the region.