The police say during the past week, high-visibility actions across residential areas, major transit routes, and the mountainous Thabo Mofutsanyane district resulted in the arrest of more than 1,300 suspects. This operation involved searching over 39,000 individuals and 1,300 vehicles, while 704 buildings were processed.

Targeted efforts by the detective services led to the capture of numerous wanted suspects, including 19 for rape, 13 for murder, and 17 for attempted murder. Additional arrests included 93 individuals for assault, 43 for burglary, and 67 for dealing in or possession of illicit drugs like mandrax and nyaope.

 Police conducted operations across the different parts of the Free State. Photo: SAPS

The commitment to combat gender-based violence and femicide saw the family violence, child protection, and sexual offences unit secure two life sentences for crimes against minors, involving a stepfather and another male suspect.

Other notable incidents include the arrest of two men in Vredefort for dealing dagga on Thursday (26/3) and the apprehension of a 20-year-old female and two accomplices for murder in Wesselsbron on Friday (27/3).

Furthermore, 147 undocumented foreign nationals were processed in partnership with the department of home affairs, and 430 fines were issued for various compliance contraventions.

This operation involved searching over 39,000 individuals and 1,300 vehicles. Photo: SAPS

Meanwhile, the road traffic management corporation has called for strict discipline among traffic officers. CEO Makhosini Msibi warned that any officers found taking bribes, misusing firearms, or working under the influence during the Easter period would be fired.

He urged officers to reduce road fatalities and remain professional as traffic volumes rise on major routes like the N1, N3, and N8, starting on Thursday (2/3).

“Motorists are urged to respect all the rules of the road and avoid alcohol, speeding, and reckless conduct,” said Msibi.

To ensure traveller safety during the busy holiday season, public transport operators face heavy fines if found transporting passengers in contravention of their permits. This enforcement extends to the roadsides, where pedestrians are urged to stay away from highways for their own protection.

Consequently, law enforcement officers have received direct instructions to remove individuals found hitchhiking along these major routes.

OFM News/Refilwe Bekane sm

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