GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The strategic deployment of several police units and newly trained constables, in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies, yielded a positive impact after 828 suspects were netted in the Garden Route District.
These operations, which ensure heightened police visibility as part of the ongoing Safer Festive Season (SFS) campaign, started on Wednesday 24 December and concluded this morning, Sunday 28 December.
According to a police statement issued this afternoon, the forces embarked on stop and search operations, foot patrols, roadblocks, vehicle check points, and blue light patrols.
Targeted operations at several illicit drug outlets and stop and search operations resulted in the arrest of 169 suspects for drug-related offences (dealing in drugs and possession of drugs). The members confiscated 313 mandrax tablets and 106,83 grammes of tik whilst a special focus on alcohol abuse led to the arrest of 8 suspects for selling liquor without a licence during close down operations. Police seized 322,69 litres of alcohol during these operations.
In the meantime, the zero tolerance approach on drunken driving during road safety operations, conducted in conjunction with provincial and local traffic officials, resulted in the arrest of 30 drivers for driving a motor vehicle whilst under the influence of liquor.
Other arrests were for serious crimes reported during the period, drunk and disorderly, possession of dangerous weapons and property related crimes.
The suspects are expected to appear in their respective courts once charged.
An arrest being made. Photo supplied
The police says the forces deployed will remain on the ground to ensure that there are more boots on the ground at malls, shopping centres, beaches and areas where large groups gather.
Police divers are also deployed along beaches in the Southern Cape to bolster visibility as well as to provide professional assistance to emergency response teams to prevent drownings.
Safer Festive Season operations will be maintained with the deployment of additional members and all these efforts are to ensure that the public are and feel safe during the festive period and beyond.
Caption: Some of the confiscated items and members deployed
