Police arrest 1 754 suspects in Mpumalanga crime sweep

More than 1 700 suspects have been arrested in Mpumalanga for various offences during high-density operations conducted across the province between July 29 and August 3.

The arrests covered a range of offences, including murder, attempted murder, rape, assault, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, dealing in drugs, illegal liquor trading, driving under the influence of alcohol, illicit mining, and immigration-related offences.

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According to Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe, detectives also arrested 50 wanted suspects linked to serious and violent crimes.

The suspects are expected to appear in various courts across the province soon.

Nonyane-Mpe said these operations form part of the SAPS’ National Combatting Action Plan, aimed at intensifying the fight against crime through prevention patrols, tracing wanted suspects, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, compliance inspections, and removing illegal contraband.

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“Police also recorded significant recoveries and confiscations, including 15 firearms, 232 rounds of ammunition, 18 commercial explosives, large quantities of dagga and other drugs, illicit liquor, contraband goods valued at about R29 950, precious metals, tobacco products, and several vehicles linked to criminal activities,” she said.

She commended all law enforcement agencies and stakeholders who participated in the operations, stating their continued collaboration is essential to reducing crime and improving public safety across the province.

Nonyane-Mpe reaffirmed the police’s commitment to creating a safer environment for all communities in Mpumalanga.

She also encouraged members of the public to continue working with police by reporting criminal activities through the SAPS Crime Stop number, 08600 10111, or via the My SAPS app.

She assured residents that all information received would be treated