WESTERN CAPE – Police in the Southern Cape embarked on various crime combatting operations when they clamped down on illicit goods and activities. These operations which commenced on Friday morning(2022-02-11) included high density patrols in crime stricken areas, compliance visits and inspections at licenced liquor outlets, roadblocks, vehicle check points and the closing down of illegal shebeens as well as drug outlets. The forces confiscated amongst others, drugs, an unlicensed firearm and liquor during the weekend raids.
On Friday, 11 February 2022 police, armed with a search warrant, conducted a search and seizure operation at a house at Thembalethu, George. A search of the house took police to a garage where a firearm was found concealed behind a plastic bag. The police members present confiscated the firearm and six rounds of ammunition. A 44-year-old man was subsequently arrested on charges of possession of unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Later the same day (2022-02-11) Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team, Rural Flying Squad members and Provincial Traffic officials were strategically deployed on the N9 as part of various operations aimed at eradicating the trafficking of illicit goods into the Western Cape. Whilst patrolling the specific road the team spotted a known highflyer. His vehicle was pulled over and members proceeded with a search when they found 45 small packets of Tik, 78 packets of dagga, one dagga parcel and 29 dagga stoppe inside his vehicle. A 28-year-old man was arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs.
Meanwhile, yesterday (2022-02-12), the same team stopped a minibus taxi which was enroute to Langkloof in the Eastern Cape at a Roadblock on the N9. Upon searching the vehicle the police found 10 kilogram of dagga and 50 grams of Tik with an estimated combined value of R25 000. This consignment was later linked to a passenger on board who was arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs. The 28-year-old suspect was arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs.
Furthermore, endeavours aimed at closing down illegal liquor outlets led to the confiscation of a large quantity of liquor during two operations at Conville (George) and Uniondale respectively. Police arrested two suspects, aged 35 and 51, on charge of selling liquor without a licence each.
All arrested are expected to make their first court appearances at various courts in the region on Monday, 14 February 2022.
Western Cape police management commended these forces for their efforts to rid communities of drugs and firearms which threatens the safety of communities. Similar operations to safeguard communities will continue with a special focus to curb Gender Based Violence and Femicide(GBVF).
Source: South African Police Service