Durban, 11 November 2024 – The KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Commissioner’s office has reported significant successes in October’s police operations, which led to the arrest of 12,593 suspects across the province. Among those apprehended were 171 suspects facing murder charges, 261 for attempted murder, and 250 for rape.
Police operations also resulted in the recovery of 345 firearms, including 23 rifles and 17 homemade illegal firearms, along with 2,998 rounds of ammunition. A total of 4,010 suspects were taken into custody for contact crimes, which included robberies, car and truck hijackings, and assault. Additionally, 501 individuals were arrested for property-related offenses, with 252 suspects linked to residential burglaries, 99 to business break-ins, and 51 to stock theft.
In efforts to combat other criminal activities, 460 individuals were arrested for malicious damage to property, 15 for arson, and 1,657 for drug-related offenses. Roadblocks, vehicle checks, and stop-and-search efforts led to 454 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Police also addressed domestic violence, arresting 261 suspects for violating the Domestic Violence Act. Further arrests included 56 for kidnapping and four for child abuse. To curb illegal liquor activities, 547 people were apprehended for dealing in alcohol without permits, 143 for being intoxicated in public, and 56 for drinking in public spaces.
Throughout these operations, law enforcement confiscated 649 knives, eight axes, and seven machetes. With the Safer Festive Season Operations underway, police visibility will be heightened, and the public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to help create a safer KwaZulu-Natal for residents and visitors alike
