Johannesburg: Eastern Cape Operation Shanela crackdowns last week resulted in the arrest of more than 1,100 suspects and the recovery of 42 unlicensed firearms. Police continued the high-density weekly operations in the province aimed at eradicating serious and violent crimes.
According to South African Government News Agency, the operations have resulted in the arrest of numerous suspects and the recovery of illegal firearms and other prohibited items. Police embarked on visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop and search operations, vehicle checkpoints, and crime prevention initiatives, aiming at disrupting criminal networks and ensuring the safety and security of communities.
During this week's operations, police recorded significant successes, including the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, which are often used in the commission of serious and violent crimes, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said in a statement.
The successes recorded include the arrest of 43 suspects for possession of unlicensed firearms, 41 suspects for dealing in drugs, and 17 suspects for possession of ammunition. Additionally, 113 illegal immigrants were apprehended, 54 suspects were arrested for burglary, and 70 suspects were nabbed for driving under the influence of alcohol. Several other suspects were arrested for offences including murder, attempted murder, rape, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), robbery, malicious damage to property, and other criminal activities.
The confiscation of illegal firearms remains a key priority for the SAPS, as removing these weapons from the hands of criminals is critical in reducing incidents of gun-related violence. As part of crime prevention strategies, dangerous weapons were also seized by police, SAPS said in a statement.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata, described the successes as a demonstration of the commitment to combat crime and dismantle criminal activities. "The possession of unlicensed firearms continues to fuel serious and violent crimes, and we will continue to use all available resources to ensure that these weapons are removed from circulation and that those responsible are facing the full might of the law," Ncata said.