EDEN CLUSTER – A joint targeted operation by various law enforcement units led police to the confiscation of drugs and copper in George and its surroundings on 17 May 2022. The crime combating operation was carried out by George Public Order Police (POP), Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team (ECCT), Rural Flying Squad, Provincial and Municipal Traffic through vehicle checkpoints, search and seizure operations at drug outlets and a cordoned-off operation at the George Taxi Rank.

The forces pounced on the taxi rank and found eight dagga parcels, 11 bankies of dagga and a plastic bag containing dagga. Police arrested a 29-year-old suspect on a charge of dealing in drugs.

Rural Flying Squad members also arrested a 30-year-old suspect who was found with 40 kilogram of copper wire in his possession. He is facing a charge of possession of suspected stolen property.

Road Safety operations led to the issuing of nine fines valued at R8200 for traffic related offences.

Furthermore, on Monday, 16 May 2022, Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team members were deployed at Thembalethu, Zone 9 where they conducted stop and search operations. The members spotted a man behaving suspiciously and proceeded with a search which led to the recovery of 65 Mandrax tablets as well as a bankie of Tik. Police confiscated the drugs and arrested the 27-year-old suspect on a charge of possession of drugs.

All arrested suspects will appear in court once charged.

These arrests forms part of concerted efforts to rid communities of drugs and to safeguard communities. Similar targeted operations will continue as part of policing efforts to heighten safety levels within communities.

Source: South African Police Service