Law enforcement had their hands full this past week. This is as, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in the North West Province, apprehended a total of 475 alleged offenders between Monday, 08 February 2021 and Friday, 12 February 2021. 13,2% of those arrested were from Dr. Ruth S. Mompati (Dr RSM) District.

SAPS in the North West Province have on Sunday, 14 February 2020, confirmed that 63 alleged offenders were arrested in in the Dr RSM District. These arrests were made through a Suspect Raiding initiative that is usually carried out in 24 hour period, but according to the police, the initiative was extended over the course of a week, as reported. In consultation with the SAPS in the province. The Vryburg Independent Post (The VIP) Team, raised matters arising from their report.

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The VIP Team enquired about the announced number of arrests as at face value appeared to be high, but according to Colonel Adéle Myburgh, spokesperson of the North West Province SAPS, the numbers are not as high as they seem. This is because during their usual 24 hour raid operations an estimate and average of arrests can tally to just over 200 suspected arrest. Therefore if one was to look at the numbers of the spread of a week they do not seem high at all.

“Of the 475 arrests, 177 were for all assaults, 49 for common robbery, 47 for burglary, 37 for rape, 21 for contravention of protection order, 31 for malicious damage to property, eight for stock theft, seven for murder and another seven for fraud. Additional suspects were nabbed for offences such as possession of suspected stolen goods, driving under the influence of alcohol, theft, attempted murder, possession of drugs and many others.” Reported Colonel Myburgh.

The number of assault related arrests in this regard is a course for concern. The VIP Team to this effect, went on a fact finding mission to find out if there is any relation to recent relaxation of the lockdown regulations (specifically looking at the unbanning of the sale of alcohol, social and recreation facilities) against the reported numbers. “Although an indepth investigation on the impact of alcohol was not done after the mentioned arrests, alcohol does have a huge impact on crimes like assault, rape and murder.” Said Colonel Myburgh.

Myburgh further confirmed to the VIP Team that most of the suspects have already appeared before various courts while others are expected to appear on Monday, 15 February 2021.

-The VIP Team

-SAPS NW