National police commissioner Fannie Masemola has commended the South African Police Service (Saps) on its high-density crime prevention and combatting action plan, which led to 15 627 arrests across the country.

The operations took place between July 7 and 13 and led to the arrests of 2 624 wanted individuals linked to serious and violent crimes and 141 suspects for murder.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest number of suspects for murder, at 38.

Mukhathi noted that during the operation, 158 people were arrested for attempted murder while 122 were arrested for rape. Free State recorded the most arrests with 28.  

Mukhathi pointed out that 1 680 people were arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm; 317 for drug dealing and 2 073 for drug possession.

He said 122 people were arrested for illegal possession of firearms and for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Masemola described the arrests as “operational gains”, which he said underscored the Saps’ “sustained commitment” to crime fighting, using intelligence-led policing.

The Saps’ high-density operations saw the confiscation of 131 firearms, 2 014 rounds of ammunition and 66 hijacked or stolen vehicles and recoveries.

Mukhathi said 940 abalone were seized across Western and Eastern Cape, while 24 914 litres of alcohol were confiscated, primarily from Gauteng.

He further noted that contraband goods valued at R93 250 was seized in the Western Cape and 816 dangerous weapons, including knives and other implements, removed from the streets.

Masemola said the Saps remained resolute in its mission to protect citizens and he commended the “bravery, vigilance, and professionalism” of officers during the operation.