KwaZulu-Natal police officers conduct crime prevention operations as part of an intensified crackdown that led to the arrest of over 13,000 suspects.
Image: SAPS
Police in KwaZulu-Natal has ramped up efforts to combat crime, achieving significant results in November. With the country observing the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, police arrested 13,054 suspects across various crime categories.
Police highlighted a focused drive against gender-based violence, leading to the arrests of 235 suspects in connection with rape cases.
"The fight against gender-based violence has also resulted in the arrest of 227 suspects for the transgression of the Domestic Violence Act and 39 more suspects were arrested for sexual assault," said police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda.
The province has also seen a crackdown on contact crimes, with 3,977 suspects arrested. Among these were 194 for murder and 199 for attempted murder.
Police also took down 69 suspects linked to house robberies and 40 in connection with business robberies. Assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm accounted for 1,949 arrests.
With firearms often at the center of violent crimes, police recovered a staggering 361 firearms, including 31 rifles, 19 shotguns, and 15 homemade firearms. Police also seized 3,352 rounds of ammunition during their operations.
"Most violent crimes in the province are committed with the use of a firearm, and for that reason, police continue to recover firearms, most of which are illegal," said Netshiunda.
The scourge of alcohol abuse has been linked to many violent and contact crimes. Police arrested 394 individuals for public intoxication and another 741 for illegal dealing in liquor. Additionally, 10 suspects were arrested for illegal distribution of liquor.
As the festive season begins, the police are determined to maintain order.
"Police operations will continue, and no lawlessness will be tolerated. Community members are encouraged to celebrate responsibly and always respect the rule of law," Netshiunda emphasised.
Police are urging community members to work together to create a safer environment.
IOL