A total of 218 people were arrested over the weekend for crimes such as attempted rape, illegal possession of firearms, house breaking and possession of stolen goods, North Rand police said on Monday.
Superintendent Sophie Mayisela said the suspects were arrested during Operation Iron Fist in several parts of Johannesburg.
The areas included Benoni, Tembisa, Daveyton and Kempton Park.
The suspects will appear in various magistrates’ courts on Monday.
”Similar operations will follow”, said Mayisela.
Meanwhile, over 500 illegal immigrants were among 1 135 people arrested over the weekend for crimes such as murder, robbery and indecent assault, Johannesburg police said on Monday.
Sergeant Sanku Tsunke said the suspects were arrested during Operation Iron Fist, a crime prevention operation throughout Johannesburg aimed at reducing the high level of crime.
Police raided various buildings and conducted ”stop searches”.
Twelve handguns, 57 rounds of ammunition and 1 521 grams of dagga were also confiscated.
”There is no place for criminals to hide here in Johannesburg. We will not compromise the safety of the inhabitants of Johannesburg”, said Area Commissioner Oswald Reddy.
The operation will run for six months. Several policing areas and services, including Johannesburg metro police, prison officials and immigration officers were assisting in the operation. — Sapa