SAPS says nationwide Easter operations delivered major clean-up on crime

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said their nationwide Easter operations delivered a major clean-up on crime, with thousands of arrests and weapons taken off the streets.

More than 770 people were arrested for selling alcohol without licences, many of them in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) and Mpumalanga.

Drunk driving also remained a concern, with more than 1,400 arrests made, again led by KwaZulu-Natal.

Meanwhile, nearly 1,750 suspects were detained for drug possession, most in the Western Cape.

Authorities also confiscated 132 illegal firearms and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, with KZN recording the highest number of handgun confiscations.

Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said more than 15,800 suspects were arrested for offences ranging from murder and rape to assault and drug-related crimes.

“During this period, multiple law enforcement agencies led by the SAPS implemented heightened visibility patrols, roadblocks, and targeted crime-prevention initiatives. 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. The fight against drugs remains an urgent priority for the government to build safer communities.”