South African Police Service (SAPS) units in the Free State province conducted a series of raids targeting drug-related crimes in Bloemfontein and surrounding areas, resulting in multiple arrests and seizures, according to Lt. Col. Thabo Covane.
Members of the Public Order Police (POP) Unit, while patrolling the Bloemspruit Police Station precinct, acted on a community tip-off about a drug post in Phase 4. “A search was conducted, during which Mandrax tablets and bankies containing Crystal Meth were found and seized,” Lt. Col. Covane said. A 38-year-old male was arrested, and cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales was confiscated.
In separate operations, two suspects, aged 19 and 28, were arrested on End Street and in Moroka Village, Thaba Nchu. “Police seized Crystal Meth and cash believed to be the proceeds of drugs,” Covane reported.
Police also targeted crime hotspots in Parkweg, including Fitchardt Street CBD, Peet Avenue, Central Park Mall, and the Tourism Center. Seven suspects, aged between 22 and 34, were arrested for possession of Crystal Meth and Mandrax tablets. Additionally, in Douglas Street, authorities confiscated 15 boxes containing 120 sachets of contraband spirits and liqueur. A 52-year-old foreign national was arrested for contravening the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act.
Further operations in the Kopanong Police Station area, covering Freedom Square, Ipopeng, and Caleb Motshabi Informal Settlement, led to the arrest of six suspects for possession and dealing in drugs. “Police seized Mandrax tablets, Crystal Meth, and dagga,” Covane stated. Two fines were issued for selling liquor without registration under the Free State Gambling and Liquor Act.
Lt. Col. Covane noted that these actions are part of ongoing efforts under Operation Shanela II in Mangaung Metro, aimed at curbing crime in the region.