‘Zero-tolerance’ New Year operations net 292 arrests in Northern Cape

THE SOUTH African Police Service (SAPS) says a sweeping, province-wide operation helped keep the Northern Cape secure as residents and visitors ushered in the New Year, with thousands of stop-and-search actions, hundreds of arrests, and a firm clampdown on alcohol-related crime.

According to Northern Cape police spokesperson Cherelle Ehlers, a zero-tolerance approach was rolled out across all five districts from December 31 to January 2 as police leadership moved onto the ground to oversee operations personally.

The co-ordinated effort was led by provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, supported by deputy provincial commissioners, district commissioners, station commanders and a broad range of law-enforcement partners.

National Traffic Police, provincial and municipal traffic officers, the Northern Cape Gambling and Liquor Board, and community structures were all mobilised as part of the intensified operations, which focused on preventing serious crime during one of the busiest periods on the calendar.

Police targeted priority offences including gender-based violence, alcohol-related crime, contact and property crimes, the possession of dangerous weapons, and road safety violations. Visibility was sharply increased at liquor outlets and public gatherings, leading to the closure of several licensed premises for non-compliance, as well as the shutdown of unlicensed outlets operating illegally.

Roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints formed a key part of the strategy, aimed at removing intoxicated drivers from the roads and intercepting the trafficking of drugs and other illicit goods.

During the operation, police stopped and searched 9,570 people and 3,768 vehicles. Sixteen motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicating substances, while more than 370 fines were issued for various traffic offences.

Crime-fighting efforts resulted in the arrest of 292 suspects for a range of serious offences, including attempted murder, robbery, rape, residential burglary, and drug-related crimes. Police also seized quantities of illegal drugs – including dagga, crystal meth and mandrax tablets – along with dangerous weapons.

Lieutenant-General Otola praised the commitment shown by officers and partner agencies, noting that the visible presence of law enforcement played a key role in preventing major incidents during the festive period.

Police have indicated that these high-impact operations will continue beyond the New Year, as authorities move to maintain pressure on criminal activity and reinforce the rule of law across the province.