More than 11 600 suspects have been arrested across KwaZulu-Natal during May, thanks to routine policing initiatives and targeted operations, said provincial police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda
Among those arrested were 232 suspects linked to rape cases, while a further 10 were apprehended for attempted rape.
“The operations also led to the arrest of 161 suspects for murder and 192 for attempted murder,” said Colonel Netshiunda.
In addition, he said, police recovered 287 firearms, 16 of which were rifles, during the month-long clampdown.
A total of 182 suspects were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in violent crimes, including robbery with aggravating circumstances, carjackings, and house and business robberies.
The figures further reveal that 2521 suspects were arrested for assault, including assault common and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Police also arrested 417 suspects linked to burglaries, stock theft, and theft of or from motor vehicles.
Colonel Netshiunda said roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints yielded more results: “We arrested 535 motorists found to be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.”
Liquor-related offences led to 1161 arrests. These included charges of public drinking, drunkenness in public spaces, illegal liquor trading, and the unlawful manufacturing of alcohol.
Weapons seized during the operations included 709 dangerous items, such as 637 knives and 24 pangas.
Police also recovered 131 livestock, which included 63 cattle, 51 goats, and 17 poultry.
“Multidisciplinary operations are ongoing, and we remain grateful to members of the community whose cooperation and tip-offs are instrumental in assisting investigations and bringing criminals to justice,” said Colonel Netshiunda.
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