GEORGE NEWS - Despite issuing numerous warnings about driving under the influence of alcohol, increased police visibility and regular roadblocks, police in the Southern Cape had their hands full during the festive season.
During the five days between 31 December and 5 January, a total of 385 people were arrested.
More than 10% (47) of these were taken into custody for drunken driving.
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson, Sgt Chris Spies, their successes go hand in hand with enhanced visible policing, combined crime-fighting efforts and an intake of 108 new constables during the season.
Read: 108 new police officers welcomed
Only 47 of the new officers will be permanently deployed in the Eden cluster: seven at the George police station, four at Conville, two at Thembalethu and one at Pacaltsdorp.
"Operations were conducted in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies.
"It included roadblocks, stop and search operations, visits to liquor outlets, foot and beach patrols, enhanced visibility through vehicle patrols, regular visits to shopping centres and the detection of wanted suspects," he said.
Focus on violent crimes
Focus on serious and violent crimes resulted in a number of suspects being arrested: one for murder, seven for rape, 24 for assault with the intent to commit grievous bodily harm and a 30-year-old for possession of dangerous weapons, while six others were taken in on robbery charges. A total of 55 suspects were arrested for drug-related offences.
Mandrax confiscated in Conville
Two people were arrested on Saturday 4 January after 300 Mandrax tablets were found in their vehicle in Conville.
According to Spies, members of the Conville crime prevention unit stopped a suspicious-looking vehicle in Nelson Mandela Boulevard and found a black bag containing Mandrax tablets and tik. "Both the driver and his passenger were arrested on charges of possession of drugs," he said.
Bidding 2019 farewell, local police and provincial traffic officers held a stop and search roadblock on the N9 just outside George near the Outeniqua Pass. A total of 102 vehicles were stopped and searched, two vehicles were impounded and fines amounting to R14 750 were issued.
On 2 January, 23 suspects were arrested for drug-related offences in George, Oudtshoorn and Knysna.
George statistics
On enquiry Spies stated that the season will only be concluded on 15 January, after which they can consolidate figures and give more detailed feedback regarding crime over the festive season.
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