SAPS in Gauteng arrested 300 suspects during a two-day multidisciplinary high-density operation targeting crime across the province’s five districts.

According to SAPS, Operation Safer Festive Season ran from November 7 to 8 as part of efforts to improve police visibility and combat criminal activities ahead of the festive season.

The operation involved several security stakeholders, including SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs, traffic law enforcement agencies, community patrollers, community policing forums, Gauteng Traffic Wardens and private security companies.

Breakdown of arrests

Of the 300 arrests, 182 suspects were apprehended for allegedly being in the country illegally, while 47 were arrested for possession of drugs.

A further 43 suspects were arrested for allegedly dealing in liquor without a permit, while 28 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.

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Operation continues

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni commended police officers and their partners for their continued efforts to combat crime across the province.

Mthombeni said the operation would continue throughout the festive season and beyond, adding that criminal activity would not be tolerated.