In efforts to stave off and curb crime, on December 23 police in the North West Province apprehended 408 suspects and shut down 15 illegal liquor outlets as the Safer Festive Season Operation Tlotla Molao continued.
In a statement, the police explained that the operation also led to the imposition of 105 fines on motorists for contravention of the National Road Traffic Act, 1996 (Act No 93 of 1996).
“The suspects were arrested at all districts for crimes, ranging from murder to assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (and common assault), illegal possession of firearms, rape, robbery with a weapon other than a firearm, possession of suspected stolen goods, burglary, stock theft and many others.
“As part of the enforcement of the Liquor Act (No 27 of 1989), 150 individuals were fined for drinking in public, 14 for being drunk in public places, while 15 illegal liquor outlets were closed.
“In addition, 25 suspects were nabbed for drug-related crimes. The operation also led to the imposing of 105 fines on motorists for contravention of the National Road Traffic Act (Act No 93 of 1996), while 13 suspected undocumented persons were taken in for processing by immigration officials.
“Moreover, items such as various drugs, liquor, three firearms, ammunition, three knives, and a vehicle were confiscated during the operations.”
Most of the suspects are expected to appear in different courts today in the province.
North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena reiterated that government agencies led by police, as well as the key stakeholders, would continue with the operations and enhance visibility to ensure a “safe and secure festive season”.
