Garden Route Police Nab 73 in Drug Crackdown, Seize Illegal Firearm

In a significant crackdown over the weekend, the Garden Route District's police forces made notable strides in their ongoing battle against drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession. From Friday, May 23, 2025, to Sunday, May 25, 2025, the police embarked on extensive operations targeting criminal hotspots within the region, particularly in Knysna, George, Oudtshoorn, and Conville.

The operations, which were intelligence-driven and involved multiple units of the police including the George Public Order Police, resulted in the arrest of 73 suspects linked predominantly to the drug trade. These individuals included eight who were apprehended for dealing in narcotics and 65 arrested for possession of substances such as mandrax, tik (methamphetamine), and dagga (cannabis).

Of particular note was the action taken in Knysna, where search warrants led to a raid on five houses known to be drug distribution centers. This raid resulted in the arrest of three women and two men, aged between 25 and 42, and the seizure of small quantities of tik and mandrax tablets.

Additionally, on the night of Saturday, May 24, 2025, a separate incident occurred in the area of Bloemfontein near White Location in Knysna. Responding to reports, police members identified and arrested a 28-year-old man following the suspicious sound of a firearm being cocked. Upon investigation, police confiscated an unlicensed pistol from the suspect, who could not provide a valid reason for its possession.

The arrested individuals are held in police custody, with most expected to appear in court on Monday, May 26, 2025. They face charges ranging from dealing in and possession of drugs to unlawful possession of a firearm.

The Western Cape police management team has expressed its approval of these operations, highlighting their commitment to eradicating the influence of drugs and illegal firearms within the community. These efforts are part of a broader strategic approach to enhance safety and security across vulnerable localities in the region, aiming to create a safer environment for all its residents.