By Kaya 959 Reporter
More than 1 000 suspects have appeared in several courts across Gauteng after they were arrested in several multi-disciplinary operations at the weekend.
Police reported that more than 40 unlicensed outlets were also shut down in raids in Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Sedibeng, and the West Rand.
Gauteng police spokesperson, Captain Kay Makhubele, said the suspects face a number of charges including theft, drug dealing, flouting Covid regulations to more serious charges of rape and murder.
“In Tshwane, police arrested more than 280 suspects while 10 were nabbed for selling liquor with a license. In Ekurhuleni District over 301 suspects were arrested, 12 for drunk driving and others were arrested for failing to follow regulations of Covid 19, possession of suspected stolen property and theft,” he said.
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Adhere to COVID-19 regulations
Makhubele said over 199 suspects were arrested in West Rand District and over 100 in Johannesburg District.
They were nabbed for various crimes including possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, rape, assault and more liquor outlets were raided after they have not closed at the time stipulated on the regulations of COVID-19.
Gauteng Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Tommy Mthombeni, applauded the police as well as members of the SANDF, National Traffic Police, Gauteng Traffic Police, Metropolitan Police departments, Home Affairs, South African Receiver of Revenue and private security companies for their efforts.
“These arrests and confiscations are a clear indication that the criminals cannot do as they wish in our province and that together with other law enforcement agencies we will continue to squeeze the space for the criminals,” he said.
Police are urging residents to adhere to COVID regulations which include sticking to curfew hours of 10pm – 4am.
“As the province, we remain committed to creating a safer Gauteng and we will continue to curb the proliferation of illegal firearms,” Mthombeni added.



