Various units deployed to crime stricken areas in the Southern Cape netted 40 suspects for drug related offences and confiscated more than R100 00 worth of drugs during crime combatting operations which commenced on Thursday, 28 January 2022 and concluded earlier today, 30 January 2022.
Operations included roadblocks, vehicle check points, high density patrols in crime hotspots, closing down of drug outlets and focused stop and search operations. These operations were aimed at entry and exit routes to the province and drug outlets all over the region.
On Thursday, members attached to the De Rust police conducted an intelligence driven operation when they stopped a Volkswagen Golf on the N12 near De Rust. A search of the vehicle ensued when the members found 100 Mandrax tablets and 40 gram of Tik inside. They confiscated the find and arrested the 47-year-old driver on a charge of dealing in drugs.
Later the same day, Kwanonqaba police conducted a vehicle check point on the N2 highway outside Mossel Bay when they stopped a motor vehicle. They proceeded with a search of the vehicle when they found a bag with 21,20 kilogram of dagga on board. Police subsequently arrested a 24-year-old suspect, driver of the vehicle, on a charge of dealing in drugs.
Meanwhile on Friday, 29 January 2022 at about 16:50 Swellendam police members conducted patrols in Bontebok and Ring Streets, Swellendam when they spotted a Ford Bakkie which was reported as missing by the owner earlier. The vigilant members stopped the vehicle and while approaching one of the occupants acted suspiciously. A search of the vehicle resulted in the confiscation of 61 Mandrax tablets which was found hidden inside the bakkie. The police arrested all four occupants aged between 28 and 40 on a charge of possession of drugs each.
The other arrests were four for dealing in drugs and 31 for possession of drugs. Seven of these suspects were arrested at Conville, George after drugs were found in their possession. Police confiscated small quantities of Mandrax tablets, Tik and dagga during these arrests.
All arrested will appear in various courts in the region once charged.
Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembisile Patekile, commended these forces for their vigilance to rid communities of drugs and arrest of those involved with illicit activities which threaten the safety of the public.
Source: South African Police Service