The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has successfully concluded intensified crime prevention operations across the Buffalo City Metropolitan area as part of preparations for the nationwide June 30 operational deployment linked to the planned “March on March” protests.
The operation, conducted on Sunday, 28 June 2026, ran from 05:45 until 18:00 and formed part of a broader security strategy aimed at maintaining public order while preventing criminal activity during the heightened security period.
Police officers carried out high-visibility patrols, roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and inspections at various businesses and public facilities across the metro.
During the operation, officers stopped and searched 1,131 vehicles and searched 956 individuals. A total of 58 traffic fines, amounting to R64,850, were issued, while 44 suspects were arrested on various charges.
Crime prevention efforts also included inspections of 152 spaza shops, 45 taverns, 10 shopping malls, 10 taxi ranks, 12 ATMs and 23 filling stations. Four roadblocks and four vehicle checkpoints were conducted throughout the day.
Police confiscated a range of illegal and suspected stolen items, including knives, copper pipes, mandrax tablets, tik, mealie meal, chicken, cigarettes and a pair of takkies.
According to SAPS, the operation was completed without any major incidents, highlighting the effectiveness of the integrated law enforcement approach and the commitment of officers deployed across the district.
District Commissioner of Buffalo City District, Major General Christopher Wright, commended officers for their dedication and thanked residents for cooperating with law enforcement.
“We commend the dedication of all SAPS members and thank the public for their cooperation. To those contemplating using these protests as cover for criminal activities, the message remains clear: the SAPS is ready and will act decisively. We respect the right to peaceful protest but will not tolerate lawlessness,” said Wright.
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