OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Modishana has commended local law enforcement for their proactive efforts in combating crime across the district. In a series of operations, police successfully recovered 15 unlicensed firearms and suspected stolen livestock throughout the district.
Among the recovered weapons were an AK-47 assault rifle and three homemade shotguns, all equipped with ammunition. In one notable arrest, five suspects in Qumbu were caught with unlicensed firearms that had their serial numbers obliterated, following a tactical stop and search while they were driving through town.
Additionally, police recovered a stolen VW Polo linked to a case in Kirstenhof, Western Cape. The stolen vehicle was found in Ngqeleni, Hluleka locality under Nyandeni Local Municipality. These efforts are part of a larger strategy to enhance safety during the holiday season, a time known for increased criminal activity.
During roadblocks held over the weekend between Lusikisiki and Coffee Bay, law enforcement stopped and searched approximately 1,255 vehicles and 2,723 individuals, leading to the seizure of dangerous weapons. Moreover, 18 drivers were arrested for drunk driving, with their blood samples drawn pending analysis to ensure convictions.
In a heartening development, police returned 183 sheep suspected of being stolen to their rightful owners, with others impounded at municipality centers in Qumbu and Tsolo in the Kumkani Mhlontlo Local Municipality precinct.
“We face a mammoth task of suffocating criminal activities to ensure the safety and peace of our communities during the festive season and beyond,” concluded Major General Modishana.
