KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Police arrested a total of 422 suspects during Operation Duty Calls aimed at ensuring a safer festive season. The arrests were made between December 15 and January 11.
Knysna Police spokesperson, Sergeant Chris Spies, said: "This operation aimed to enhance the safety of all visitors and inhabitants of our area, especially during the festive season. It was held in conjunction with Knysna Municipal Traffic, Knysna Provincial Traffic and the Department of Correctional Services. The operation included roadblocks, vehicle check-points (VCPs), visits to shebeens, foot patrols in the central business district and beaches. A special focus was also placed on liquor and drug outlets."
The police arrested 93 suspects for drug-related offences, which included dealing in drugs and possession of drugs. Drugs such as tik, heroin, Mandrax and dagga were confiscated during these operations. "We arrested four suspects for dealing in liquor without a licence and confiscated an undisclosed amount of liquor during these operations. Continued emphasis on road safety led to the arrest of 15 suspects for driving motor vehicles whilst under the influence of liquor. Three unlicensed firearms were also confiscated."
• Possession of stolen property - 8;
• Possession of dangerous weapon - 6;
• Shoplifting - 11;
• Some arrests for drunkenness, riotous behaviour, malicious damage to property and other minor offences;
• 18 suspects were arrested for property related crimes; most of these arrests were for housebreaking and theft;
• 11 suspects were arrested for sexual offences;
• 1 suspect was arrested for murder.
The station commander of the Knysna Police, Colonel Atwell Metu, thanked all roleplayers who contributed to these successes. "A special word of thanks to members of the public who continued to provide valuable information that led to some arrests."
ARTICLE: CHRISTO VERMAAK, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD JOURNALIST
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