147 000 arrested in SAPS crime sweep, 46 illegal guns seized in KZN

More than 147 000 suspects have been arrested across South Africa over the last week, with 46 unlicensed firearms seized in KZN alone.

This is according to the latest Operation Shanela II report issued by the SAPS on Monday.

Of the arrests, 3 051 suspects were apprehended in connection with rape, murder and grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Gender-based violence (GBV) and all crimes against women and children remain a priority for SAPS.

As a result, 298 suspects were arrested for rape, with 130 having been circulated as wanted.

More than 100 000 charges included possession of unlicensed firearms, counterfeit goods, hijackings and drug-related crimes.

The sting operation is aimed at ‘sweeping’ up criminals via high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, stop-and-searches, vehicle and compliance inspections, and the tracing of wanted suspects to ensure criminals are charged.

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