1 348 people were arrested for various offences across the Mpumalanga province over the Easter weekend.

The arrests were part of Operation Paseka, led by the SAPS during the Easter weekend, and marked a success. The operation was designed to curb crime and road fatalities during the holiday period, and it involved intensified patrols, roadblocks, and stop-and-search operations across the province.

As the major focus was road safety, 199 alleged drunk drivers were taken off the roads. Officers also clamped down on illegal liquor outlets, arresting 209 suspects for selling alcohol without licenses. Police stressed that such outlets often fuel violent crimes, making their closure a vital step in protecting communities.

The operation further targeted illegal firearms, resulting in the recovery of 11 shotguns, three rifles, 88 rounds of ammunition, and 22 other dangerous weapons.

READ MORE: Man shot dead in Old Coronation

Arrests for violent offenses were also made and resulted in arrests of 17 for murders, 11 attempted murders, 29 rapes, 167 assaults with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 68 cases of drug dealing, 82 of drug possession, and 10 armed robberies.

Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the success of the operation, crediting collaboration between SAPS and other law enforcement agencies. He also thanked residents and visitors who cooperated with officers, noting that community support was key to the weekend’s achievements.

Murder case investigation underway after a 22-year-old was shot dead in Old Coronation on Easter weekend
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