81 arrested in crime blitz

Police are clamping down on crime hot spots in the city, especially the Plessislaer policing precinct where criminal activity is rife.

A total of 81 people were arrested for various criminal offences in the Umgungundlovu district after police launched an anti-crime blitz over the weekend.

Police officers from stations across the province, as well as various units of the SAPS, were involved in the operation.

The Plessislaer policing precinct, which is a hot spot for criminal activities, was targeted by the police. Many arrests were effected and stolen goods recovered. High calibre firearms were also seized. During the course of the blitz police came under gunfire attack by suspects who resisted arrest.

Police spokesman Lieutenant

Colonel Nqobile Gwala said:

“We will not allow criminals to terrorise our community and roam free on our streets.”

The operation commenced at 4pm and ended at midnight in various areas of Umgungundlovu. Suspects were arrested for offences such as the unlawful possession of firearms, robbery, rape, attempted murder, stock theft, drug possession, possession of dangerous weapons, illicit liquor dealing, malicious damage to property, among other crimes.

Stop and search roadblocks were also set up and traffic fines were issued to drivers violating the National Traffic Act. Persons who were unable to produce identity documents were also arrested.

All those arrested will soon appear in the various magistrate’s courts in the Umgungundlovu District.