73 suspects arrested in Garden Route in special operations

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The concerted efforts by police to rid vulnerable communities of firearms and drugs led to the arrest of 73 suspects for drug-related offences and the confiscation of an unlicensed firearm during crime combatting operations in the Garden Route District over the weekend.

Various police units were deployed to crime-stricken areas from Friday to Sunday.

According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies, the police arrested 8 suspects for dealing in drugs and 65 for possession of drugs.

Most of the arrests were effected at the police stations of Knysna (24), George (11), Oudtshoorn (7) and Conville (7). Police confiscated small quantities of mandrax, tik and dagga.

On Friday, George Public Order Police members armed with search warrants also embarked on several intelligence-driven operations aimed at five houses known as drug outlets in Knysna.

"The vigilance of the members led to the arrest of three women and two men, aged between 25 and 42, on charges of dealing in drugs. Small quantities of tik and mandrax tablets were confiscated during these arrests," said Spies.

The suspects remain in police custody and were expected to appear in the respective courts on Monday. They are facing charges of dealing in drugs and possession of drugs.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, at about 20:30 Knysna police members attended to a complaint at Bloemfontein near White Location in Knysna when they heard the sound of a firearm being cocked.

"They immediately went to investigate and while approaching, a man dropped an item. A search ensued, leading to the discovery of a pistol.

"The man was unable to account for his possession thereof and was subsequently arrested on a charge of unlawful possession of firearm."

The 28 year old suspect remains in police custody. He will appear in court once charged.

Some of the drugs that police confiscated.