South Africa
Police vow continued crack down on alcohol, drugs after Easter successes─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 10:29 Tue, 07 Apr 2026
Law enforcement officials have vowed to continue their fight against illegal alcohol and drugs sales following successful nationwide operations over the Easter weekend.
More than 500 illegal taverns and shebeens were shut down, and thousands of suspects were arrested from last Monday (30/3). Numerous illegal firearms were also confiscated as authorities ramped up efforts to combat crime and improve public safety during the busy holiday period.
Multiple law enforcement agencies, led by police-implemented heightened visibility patrols, roadblocks, and targeted crime-prevention initiatives, arrested at least 15,840 suspects for a range of offences, including murder and rape.
“One of the critical areas we continue to focus on is the regulation of alcohol sales and the shutdown of illegal taverns,” said national police spokesperson Brig. Athlenda Mathe. “Just this past week, a total of 532 illegal taverns and shebeens were shut down for noncompliance with the Liquor Act.”
Police also arrested 773 suspects for selling liquor without a valid licence. The highest number was recorded in KwaZulu-Natal, where 299 suspects were detained, followed by Mpumalanga with 209 arrests.
“By shutting down illegal taverns and arresting those who sell liquor unlawfully, law enforcement is taking a firm stand against environments that enable crime to thrive,” said Mathe.
Drunk driving also remained a key focus area. A total of 1,419 suspects were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. KwaZulu-Natal again recorded the highest number with 588 arrests, followed by Mpumalanga with 199 and the Eastern Cape with 197.
The fight against drugs continues to be a priority for the government to build safer communities. A total of 1,744 suspects were arrested for drug possession during the same period, added Mathe.
The majority of drug-related arrests were made in the Western Cape, where 737 suspects were apprehended, followed by KwaZulu-Natal with 341.
Police also released a breakdown of arrests for other serious crimes recorded during the operations, including 1,342 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 146 for murder, 123 for attempted murder, 189 for rape, 171 for house robbery, and 334 for dealing in drugs.
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