A joint law enforcement operation targeted crime hotspots across several Barberton communities between Friday and Saturday morning, October 9 and 10.

Arrests for various offences

Suspects aged between 25 and 58 were arrested for various offences, including possession of explosives, a firearm and ammunition, and gold-bearing material.

Other charges included dealing in dagga, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and immigration-related offences, according to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Sergeant Thulisile Magagula.

She said the operation was conducted under the overall command of the Ehlanzeni District commissioner, Major General Dorah Xaba.

Roadblocks and crime prevention patrols

During the operation, police conducted a roadblock along the R40 road.

“Additional crime prevention activities included patrols at shopping malls, banks, ATMs, business premises, spaza shops, health facilities, residential areas, liquor outlets, taxi ranks, bus terminals and identified crime hotspots,” said Magagula.

ALSO READ: Police arrest armed robbery suspect in Sabie after high-speed chase

She added that officers patrolled key areas in Barberton Exts 7, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14, as well as Verulam, Barberton town and Emjindini.

Three taverns were also closed during the operation.

Suspects to appear in court

The suspects are expected to appear in the Barberton Magistrate’s Court on Monday, October 12.

“The police will continue to conduct high-density and intelligence-driven operations across the province to prevent and combat crime,” said Magagula.