FREE STATE – The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested four individuals, aged 20 to 51, following an anti-gang operation in Joe Slovo, Heidedal, which resulted in drug seizures and an attack on police officers by a mob.
The Provincial Anti-Gang Unit executed a search warrant at a residence in Joe Slovo on Tuesday at approximately 06:45. According to SAPS, as the tactical team attempted to gain entry, the 45-year-old homeowner unleashed pit bull dogs at two police officials. Utilizing their tactical training, the officers successfully evaded potentially fatal bites.
Upon securing and searching the premises, the operational team seized a substantial quantity of Crystal Meth and an undisclosed amount of cash suspected to be proceeds of crime.
The situation escalated outside the residence after the homeowner was informed of his arrest. A crowd quickly mobilized and began pelting police officials with stones, causing significant damage to state vehicles. A response vehicle from the Heidedal SAPS, which was mobilized to provide backup, was also heavily pelted and severely damaged by the crowd.
To maintain public order, protect state property, and safely extract the team, the Anti-Gang Unit deployed stun grenades and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd. Authorities ultimately secured the crime scene, preserved the seized drug exhibits, and safely withdrew with the four suspects.
Four suspects were arrested in connection with the operation:
– The 45-year-old homeowner and a 20-year-old man were arrested inside the house on charges of dealing in drugs. The homeowner faces an additional charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) for setting the dogs on the officers.
– Two additional suspects, aged 26 and 51, were arrested for malicious damage to property and assault with intent to cause GBH related to the mob attack on the police and their vehicles.
All four suspects are expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court soon.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia strongly condemned the violent attack on the officers and state property.
“An attack on the police is a direct attack on the authority of the State. Our officers put their lives on the line daily to rid our neighbourhoods of dangerous drugs and violent gangs,” Lesia said.
He noted that it is deeply concerning when community elements choose to shield criminal syndicates by attacking the police officials working to protect them from drug addiction. Lesia affirmed that the police will not be intimidated or retreat, stating that SAPS will continue to execute its mandate without fear or favour.