Police in the Northern Cape stamped the authority of the state as learners returned back to school throughout the province.
Disruptive actions across all five districts in the province secured the arrest of 228 suspects for serious crimes including dealing in drugs, possession of a dangerous weapon, possession of drugs, attempted murder, business robbery, murder, rape and assault GBH.
This includes the arrest of five wanted suspects who were traced by detectives and successfully apprehended.
Collaboration between SAPS and other Government Departments to address priority crimes resulted in these arrests and confiscation of drugs such as dagga, Tik and Mandrax as well the seizure of alcohol, dangerous weapons and money believed to be the proceeds of crime.
A total of 5687 persons and 2777 vehicles were stopped and searched at roadblocks, vehicle check points, high visibility patrols and stop and search actions.
Compliance inspections were conducted at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers, scrapyards, and recyclers.
17 unlicensed liquor outlets were closed during these inspections.
In an effort to promote rural safety, several farms and mines were visited.
Police in partnership with other Government Departments and Community Police Structures embarked on numerous back to school awareness campaigns in all five districts to promote school safety and address significant issues such as bullying, dangerous weapons and drug abuse.
Engagements at schools will continue.
Communities are encouraged to assist the police and share valuable information and to continue aiding the police by reporting incidents via the MySAPS app or 08600 10111