SAPS shuts down 3 600 illegal liquor outlets in festive season blitz
Police officers raid illegal liquor outlets during the festive season crackdown.
Image: File
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has intensified its festive season operations, leading to the closure of 3 665 illegal liquor outlets nationwide. The clampdown forms part of a wider crackdown on serious crime, with arrests for murder, assault, rape and drug-related offences.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said the Safer Festive Season Operations, conducted alongside Operation Shanela, were targeting a range of criminal activities.
“As the SAPS continues to implement its multi-pronged Safer Festive Season Operations, running concurrently with Operation Shanela, 1 283 suspects were arrested for illegal liquor trade and 2 520 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In the past week alone, 49 021 litres of alcohol were confiscated across multiple provinces,” said Mukhathi.
The latest operations led to several major arrests:
158 suspects were arrested for murder;
180 for rape; and
488 for drug dealing.
Seizures included:
156 firearms,
Over 6 000 mandrax tablets,
7 kilograms of crystal meth,
Nearly one million tobacco products, and
Contraband goods valued at more than R121 million.
One of the standout interventions included the destruction of 20 050 litres of alcohol confiscated at illegal taverns and shebeens.
Mukhathi also highlighted arrests in connection with illegal mining in North West, kidnapping in Limpopo, and unlawful firearm possession in KwaZulu-Natal.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola praised law enforcement teams for their continued commitment.
“Operation Shanela has once again demonstrated the unwavering resolve of the South African Police Service to protect our people,” he said.
“These arrests and recoveries send a clear message: crime will not be tolerated. Offenders will face the full might of the law. We thank communities for their cooperation and call for continued vigilance as we work together for a safer South Africa.”
The SAPS has urged residents to remain alert and report criminal activity to help ensure public safety during the festive period.
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