67 arrested in Dutywa crackdown, 23 caught drunk driving

A series of high-density police operations in Dutywa has led to 67 arrests, including 23 motorists allegedly caught driving under the influence of alcohol.

According to the South African Police Service, the arrests were made during seven major operations carried out in the Dutywa policing precinct between 5 April and 12 April 2026. The operations intensified from Thursday as part of a focused effort to tackle crime in identified hotspot areas.

Police said the arrests covered a range of serious offences. Among them were 23 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol, 12 arrests related to rape, 11 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), and three for murder.

In addition to the arrests, law enforcement officers confiscated 16 dangerous weapons during operations conducted in high-risk areas.

The operations involved multiple law enforcement agencies working together in what police described as a multi-disciplinary approach aimed at restoring order and improving safety in the community.

Acting Amathole District Commissioner Brigadier Zinikele Freddie commended officers and supporting teams for their efforts during the operation.

“Members must intensify these operations in order to restore stability in our communities,” said Freddie.

Police have indicated that similar high-density operations are expected to continue in the area as part of ongoing crime prevention strategies.

The results from the latest operations highlight both the scale of policing efforts in the region and the level of serious crime being targeted by authorities.