FREE STATE – More than 300 suspects were arrested during Operation Phethisa Molao.

The multi-disciplinary operation was launched by the Free State Premier, Me Sisi Ntombela, joined by the Police Minister General Bheki Cele at Bobbiespark on 15 August 2022. Provincial Commissioner, Lt General Baile Motswenyane said boots of the SAPS members must be felt by criminals.

The first Provincial operation after the launch was held, where all 5 Districts had boots on the ground. 1562 Stop and search operations were conducted, more than 19100 persons were searched, 6 suspects arrested for murder, 8 arrested for rape, 4 arrested for stock theft, 56 people for drug related crimes, 25 arrested for driving under the influence of liquor. 112 people were arrested for being undocumented, 34 people arrested for GBV cases, 3 firearms confiscated and 54 ammunition pieces seized, 8 stolen vehicles recovered, 88 people were arrested for drinking in public.

Such operations will continue throughout the province and all suspects will appear in their respective Magistrate courts on different cases.

Source: South African Police Service