Safer Festive Season plans put in place to ensure that residents and holiday makers are and feel safe during the holiday season and beyond, continue to tighten the grip on crime as 1802 suspects were arrested various crimes from 21 to 28 December 2020.
The suspects include 1 066 that were arrested for liquor related crimes – 942 for illegal dealing in liquor, 81 for being drunk in public places and 41 for drinking in public places and a staggering 241 for assaults – assault GBH (190) and assault common (51).
Of the 116 suspects arrested for crimes detected as a result of police action, 26 were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, while the remainder were arrested for drug related crimes, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition and possession of suspected stolen property.
1 015 rounds of ammunition and 57 firearms including 40 pistols/ revolver, 16 rifles and one (1) shotgun were also recovered.
During the operations, 144 Dangerous weapons including 128 knives, three (3) pangas and three (3) axes were also seized.
All arrested suspects appeared in various courts across province while others were issued with summons to pay fines.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Liziwe Ntshinga applauded the members for the arrests and confiscations. “Our well executed Safer Festive Season Operational plans continue to tighten the grip on crime. We remain committed in ensuring that all residents and visitors of the Eastern Cape ARE and FEEL safe during this festive season and will not hesitate to stamp the authority of the state in all corners of the Province,” she said.
“Stock theft remains a concern in the province and the recovery of 14 cattle, 22 goats and 110 sheep is pleasing as the stock represents the livelihood of many citizens in the Province,” she added.
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