| 2024/11/03 |
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Media Statement from the Office of the Minister of Police
The Minister of Police, Mr Senzo Mchunu, lauds the tireless dedication and strategic collaboration demonstrated by law enforcement teams in the recent string of critical arrests, which highlight the commitment to public safety and crime prevention across various regions. On Sunday, 27 October 2024 in Klerksoord, an illegal scrap metal dealer in possession of stolen copper cables, dangerous tools, illicit substances, and other stolen property was arrested; the individual is a Zimbabwean national. This arrest stems from continued efforts by law enforcement to dismantle the infrastructure enabling cable theft and infrastructure sabotage, which have posed severe risks to the economy and community safety. A joint effort between the Tshwane District Crime Intelligence and Bojanala Crime Intelligence units culminated in a significant operation leading to the arrest of six individuals linked to a series of armed robberies, firearm offenses, and other violent crimes. This operation, based on rigorous intelligence gathering and vigilant patrolling, targeted suspects identified for planned robbery in the Brits policing area. On Thursday, 31 October 2024, law enforcement officers successfully apprehended six suspects—four foreign nationals and two South Africans. A thorough search of the vehicle they were in uncovered three unlicensed firearms, several rounds of ammunition, and various suspected stolen items, all linked to recent robbery and kidnapping cases. The firearms seized include a revolver that has been positively matched to a July house robbery in Kameeldrift. Further underscoring the SAPS’s unwavering determination to uphold law and order, the Vala Umgodi operation led by SAPS and the SANDF in Orkney yesterday, forced 225 illegal miners to emerge from abandoned mine shafts, effectively ending their unlawful activities. By blocking the delivery of supplies to these illegal miners, SAPS and SANDF have asserted control over these mining areas, reclaiming public spaces from criminal syndicates. “These operations highlight the courage, coordination, and professionalism of our law enforcement officers. I commend every officer involved for their dedication to creating safer communities and bringing perpetrators of violent crime to justice. The arrests of these individuals are a testament to the success of intelligence-led policing and community cooperation in dismantling criminal networks”, said Minister Mchunu. For enquiries, contact Ms Kamogelo Mogotsi, Spokesperson for the Ministry on 076 523 0085. For media releases, speeches and news visit the SAPS portal at: www.saps.gov.za
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