The South African Police Service (SAPS), South African National Defence Force (SANDF), national and provincial Traffic, the Road Traffic Corporation, private security, the Department of Health (DOH), the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), the Department of Justice (DOJ), and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) conducted and monitored, roadblocks, stop and search operations to trace wanted suspects in order to reduce serious crime in the province. The operation took place from 2 June to 8 June 2021.

According to the statement issued by the Free State police spokesperson, Motantsi Makhele, 139 suspects were arrested for murder, attempted murder, rape, gender-based violence (GBV), common assault, and sexual offenses. In total, 55 suspects were nabbed for property-related crime, 33 for liquor-related crime, 2 for robbery, while 49 suspects were arrested on drug-related charges.

Makhele added that further investigations will be conducted to establish possible links between the arrested suspects and other crimes.

One firearm, eight rounds of ammunition, and ten dangerous weapons have been confiscated during the operation. A total number of 838 fines were issued, meanwhile, four cars were also recovered. Drugs and liquor were also confiscated during the operation.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi