Law enforcement officers ‘hit the jackpot’

Heeding the call for a crime clamp down, 227 law enforcement officers conducted a two-day sweep on Newcastle, Madadeni and oSizweni on July 30 and July 31.

The purpose of the operation was to foster cohesive relationships between departments, according to the instruction of national authorities.

Patrols and stop-and-search operations were conducted on foot and by vehicle.

An impressive 71 arrests were made, 10 of which were suspected illegal immigrants. Included in the figure were the nine suspects arrested for possession of dagga.

Arrests were made by operatives from the following entities:

– SAPS.

– Protection Services.

– Department of Home Affairs.

– Department of Labour.

– National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa.

– Department of Trade and Industry: National Liquor Authority.

While conducting a search, a suspect was arrested after being linked to a robbery that occurred earlier.

“The clothing he was wearing (at the time of the robbery) was found inside a plastic bag and he was identified by the victim,” said SAPS spokesperson, Captain Shooz Magudulela.

During the course of the operation, operatives managed to search 24 properties, 446 vehicles and 194 people. In addition, approximately R108 000 in fines were issued.

The following recoveries were made:

– 75 Pirated CDs.

– 22 Counterfeit bank notes.

– Two live rounds of R5 assault rifle ammunition.

– A live round of 9mm ammunition.

– A .32 caliber  magazine.

– Shot gun live rounds.

– 12 Rounds of live AK47 ammunition.

– A school bag containing a black radio and a silver car radio.

– 94 Pirated DVDs.

– A dagger with a brown handle and black pouch.

– A leather jacket and a white hat.

– A cellphone in its pouch.

The community applauded authorities for going beyond the call of duty to ensure criminals faced the full extent of the law.

The outcome of the operation was a reminder to criminals think twice before breaking the law!