Gauteng police arrested 1,154 suspects for various crimes during a province-wide crime operation over the weekend.
The arrests were made during Operation Shanela II, which targeted criminal activity and other law violations across the province.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko says the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to combat crime and ensure the safety of communities across Gauteng.
Among those arrested were 110 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol, while 160 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly contravening the Immigration Act.
Gauteng Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana led the operation in the Atteridgeville and Pretoria West policing precincts in Tshwane.
During a roadblock in Pretoria West, police arrested 67 people for allegedly being in the country illegally.
“Another 32 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence, while 18 suspects were arrested for possession of drugs.
“Police also arrested a person accused of employing an undocumented foreign national and another suspect allegedly involved in harbouring undocumented people,” Sibeko says.
A security officer was also arrested for allegedly being in possession of a firearm without a valid licence or permit.
Gauteng detectives made 786 arrests for various serious crimes. This included 162 suspects arrested in connection with crimes against women and children.
Police also closed 10 liquor outlets for failing to comply with the Liquor Act.
The operation involved the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Home Affairs, traffic law-enforcement agencies, Community Policing Forums, Gauteng Crime Prevention Wardens and private security companies.
Sibeko says police will continue with sustained crime-prevention operations across the province as part of efforts to reduce crime and maintain law and order.
