Nelie Erasmus
investigate@nmgroup.co.za
POLOKWANE – The crime prevention operation known as Operation When Duty Calls that was conducted for two months before Christmas saw over 700 suspected criminals being arrested.
Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Fannie Masemola said this operation went a long way in ensuring the safety of everyone in Limpopo over the festive season. A total of 768 suspects were arrested for offences ranging from armed robbery, murder, rape, assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm and common assault. At least 82 suspected rapists were also apprehended.
Six illegal firearms as well as 41 dangerous weapons such as knives, pangas and axes were also confiscated.
Masemola applauded the police’s perfect timing. “These arrests are a sure indication that the campaign is having an impact in ensuring that people in this province enjoyed a safe and secure festive season. We will continue maintaining our visibility and make life very difficult for all criminals,” he said.
The campaign will end on January 31 and is aimed at maintaining high police visibility throughout the country with a view towards curbing cash in-transit robberies, ATM bombings and armed robberies, which usually increase during the festive season.
