KZN police arrest over 11 000 suspects in one month
The provincial spokesperson for the South African Police Service gave a rundown on arrests made and weapons recovered during February.
DURING February, detectives of Amanzimtoti police conducted several raids to ensure perpetrators were arrested and placed behind bars. A total of 11 suspects were arrested for various contact and property-related crimes.
Also read: Man who went missing on the N2 still not found
In a statement by provincial spokesperson for the police, Robert Netshiunda, 11 007 arrests were made by police in KwaZulu-Natal, 151 suspects were apprehended for cases of murder and armed robberies, 217 suspects were arrested for rape, and an alarming 1 107 people were arrested for liquor-related crimes. Police also recovered 34 cattle, 46 goats, 33 sheep and four horses.
He added that during February alone, 287 firearms were recovered, 13 of which were rifles, along with 5 825 rounds of ammunition. In addition, 626 dangerous weapons, including 562 knives, 12 axes and 20 machetes were removed from society, and in the process, 163 suspects were arrested.
Netshiunda said that firearms remain the weapon of choice in the commission of murder, attempted murder and armed robbery crimes.
Also read: 8 steps to follow when reporting a crime
Amanzimtoti police communications officer, Captain Charlene van der Spuy, said that the arrested suspects are still attending their court hearings and the detectives are confident they will be brought to book.
“Sixteen convictions were secured and admission of guilt paid from R1 000 up to R20 000. The community is urged to play an active role in reporting criminal activities and any suspicious behaviour. The police work hand in hand with security companies and community policing forums for a proactive approach in combating crime. A strong relationship between the police and the community isolates criminals and creates a safer, more secure community,” she said.
Members of the community who may have information that can assist in solving crimes are requested to contact Crime Stop on 086 001 0111 or utilise the MYSAPS mobile app, which can be found on the Google Play and Apple App stores, to give tip-offs.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
