Police arrest 94 in weekend campaign

A POLICE sting operation in East London netted 94 suspects for alleged crimes ranging from possession of dangerous weapons to housebreaking and theft at the weekend.

The suspects, between the ages of 18 and 59, are expected to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court today.

Charges include possession of drugs, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary, shoplifting, housebreaking and traffic offences.

“The suspects were charged and detained at the respective police stations,” said police spokesman Captain Stephen Marais.

Marais said the operations would be ongoing and the community could expect to see an increase in police presence in the cluster area, which includes Duncan Village, Beacon Bay, Gonubie, Buffalo Flats, Kidd’s Beach and Chalumna.

He said there had been an increase in assault and drug related arrests.

It was also noticed that arrests for drunk driving had decreased dramatically with only two arrests at the weekend.

Marais commended the community for working with the police and contributing to the success of the operation.

“Members of the community patrol with police and point out troubled areas for police to investigate.

“This type of working relationship can only strengthen the fight against crime,” he said. — DDR