Police apprehend over 700 suspects

The police in the province apprehended 707 suspects for various offences between Sunday, 07 and Sunday, 14 August 2016. The suspects were arrested during various day to day and special operations including “Operation Basadi” which were conducted to ensure safety.

Out of this number, 163 were arrested for contact crimes, mainly assaults, 24 for property related crimes, 156 for drug-related crimes, including driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, 43 for possession of suspected stolen goods and many other crimes.  A total of 43 arrests were made through operations such as “Operation Basadi” that are conducted as part of Women’s Month.

It was during the operations that 369 fines were issued for liquor, road traffic and second-hand goods related offences including drinking in public and illegal dealing in liquor.

The police managed to seize various drugs, four firearms with 12 ammunition, liquor, six vehicles, seven cattle, copper cables, counterfeit cigarettes as well as various electrical appliances.

Most of the suspects have already appeared in various courts within the province while others are expected to appear today.

The North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane who led some of the operations, commended members particularly women who showed enthusiasm. She indicated that the police and other security forces will continue with the operations to ensure general safety.