WESTERN CAPE – The deployment of various police units in crime ridden areas under and in support of “Vuthu Hawe” operations in the Southern Cape yielded excellent results with the arrests of 48 suspects for drug related offences.

These operations conducted by Public Order Police, Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team, Rural Flying Squad and crime prevention units from local police station commenced on Friday, 11 March 2022 and concluded earlier today(2022-03-13). It included roadblocks, vehicle check points, closing of drug outlets, vehicle patrols and stop and search operations.

The focused operations aimed at drug outlets led to the arrest of 45 suspects for possession of drugs and three for dealing in drugs. Police confiscated small quantities of Mandrax tablets, Tik, Cocaine, Khatt and Dagga during the arrests. Most of the arrests were affected at Beaufort West (7), Oudtshoorn (7) and Knysna (9).

On Saturday, 12 March 2022 at about 17:30 members of the Attaqua K9 conducted patrols at Rademeyer Street, Oudtshoorn when they spotted a suspicious vehicle. They stopped the vehicle and proceeded with a search when a trained police dog acted positively. A further search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a small quantity of Mandrax Tablets. The members confiscated the drugs and arrested the 49 year old driver on a charge of dealing in drugs.

Meanwhile, police also arrested of 13 suspects for possession of dangerous weapons in crime hotspots during stop and search operations in the region. A number of sharp objects were confiscated during these arrests.

All suspects, aged between 17 and 49, remains in police custody. They are expected to appear in various courts once charged.

These operations forms part of continues efforts by police to safeguard communities. The closing down of drug outlets are key priority as part of policing efforts to rid communities of drugs.

Source: South African Police Service