Twelve (12) rifles, sixty one (61) pistols and a semi-automatic firearm were among several dangerous weapons together with 913 live rounds of ammunition which were removed from society during intensified police operations which were executed in KwaZulu-Natal during the week from 28 November to 05 December 2022. A total of one thousand three hundred and thirty (1330) suspects were arrested in the process.

During the heightened police operations, thirty one (31) people were arrested for murder, twenty seven (27) were nabbed for attempted murder and thirty two (32) suspects were apprehended for rape and sexual assault. Several other suspects were put behind bars for crimes ranging from robbery with aggravating circumstances, carjacking, burglary at residential and business premises as well as stock theft.

Safer Festive Season operations are in full swing and those who aspire to be criminals will be met with a full might of the law. Targeted intelligence-driven operations at identified hotspot areas and routine patrols with amplified police visibility are ongoing and law-abiding community members are urged to work with the police and isolate criminals.

Residents are also encouraged to report any criminal activity using the SAPS Crime Stop number, 08600 10111 or via MySAPS App.

Source: South African Police Service