A clamp down operation on illicit drugs and liquor outlets under the theme “More boots on the ground” led to the arrest of 135 suspects for dealing in drugs, possession of drugs, selling liquor without a licence and driving motor vehicle whilst under the influence. The successes were affected during safer festive season operations conducted in the Garden Route District which commenced on Friday, 29 December 2023 until this morning, 31 December 2023.
These crime combatting operations were conducted in crime infested areas with the deployment of various police units in conjunction with Provincial and local traffic, Municipal Law Enforcement, Security Companies, Community in Blue and other law enforcement agencies. The operations entailed roadblocks, vehicle check points, search and seizure operations as well as vehicle and foot patrols at malls and beaches. The executed actions led to the arrest of 57 suspects for possession of drugs, 42 for possession of dangerous weapon, 12 for dealing in drugs and 4 for selling liquor without a licence. The forces confiscated mandrax, tik, dagga, liquor and dangerous weapons.
In George, integrated forces specifically focused in and around the George Taxi rank which led to the confiscation of 100 mandrax tablets and a small quantity of dagga. A 36-year-old man was taken into custody. He is facing charges of dealing in drugs.
Concerted efforts on road safety awareness with the execution of roadblocks and vehicle check points along entry and exit routes also yielded success. A total of 20 drivers find themselves behind bars after being arrested on charges of drunken driving. The police also confiscated a bag of dagga during a search of a passenger bus on the N2 highway just outside Sedgefield.
Those arrested will appear in their respective courts once charged.
All these arrests forms part of the Safer Festive Season operation to ensure that the public are and feel safe. These type of operations are being intensified with the strategic deployment of resources leading up to the New Year’s Eve celebrations and beyond. A zero tolerance approach will be maintained throughout the festive period.
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