Massive Crime Crackdown Operation Nets 763 Suspects Across Four Provinces
Over 750 suspects have been arrested across multiple South African provinces. A multi-disciplinary, zero tolerance approach under the theme of “MORE BOOTS ON THE GROUND”, resulted in an excellent outcome after 763 suspects were arrested for various crimes by the SAPS.
Police Spokesperson Colonel Cherelle Ehlers elaborated on the recent actions taken by a coalition of law enforcement bodies. “The skilfully executed Inter-Provincial Cross Border Crime Combating operation was held from 20 to 22 February 2024 between the Northern Cape, Free State, Eastern Cape and Western Cape Provinces,” she said.
The operation spanned 20 districts and involved 329 police stations, covering 21 Ports of Entry and ensuring a substantial law enforcement presence on National and Regional routes in 65,5% of the country.
Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, the Northern Cape Provincial Commissioner, led the parade on duty, consisting of SAPS, Traffic Department, SANDF and other external stakeholders. “She emphasised the importance of the operation in order to address cross border crimes, with the focus on drugs, counterfeit goods, endangered species, illegal firearms, non-ferrous metals and stolen livestock,” Colonel Ehlers added.
The operation was a collaborative effort between various units and stations of SAPS, as well as external stakeholders including Community Police Forums, SANDF, Provincial Traffic, and departments of Home Affairs, Labour, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, among others. Through an integrated approach, the mission focused on eradicating all cross border crime and illegal activities.
Intense activities included 61 roadblocks and 249 vehicle checkpoints, resulting in thousands of searches and hefty fines issued for various infractions. Compliance inspections at multiple businesses led to the closure of 22 unlicensed liquor outlets and seizures of illicit cigarettes, counterfeit goods, and other expired items.
Lieutenant General Otola praised the Northern Cape SAPS and its provincial counterparts for their professionalism and contributions towards the success of the operation. “Communities in the participating provinces can be assured that operations of this nature will continue unabated. Police will continuously portray a zero tolerance approach at national routes and borders within South Africa,” she asserted.
