Several suspects have been arrested during a joint law enforcement operation in Die Vlei, Athlone, as police intensify efforts to combat serious and violent crime in the area.

The operation was conducted on Friday, 9 October, under the banner of Operation Prosper Karabo, following recent attacks on police officials.

According to police, the operation targeted criminal activity in Die Vlei, with technology including drones, Automated Licence Plate Recognition and facial recognition systems used to help trace wanted suspects and disrupt drug-related activities.

Police spokesperson Andrè Traut confirmed that four men were arrested in connection with a recent attack on police officials, while another suspect was arrested in connection with a double murder that took place in the Athlone policing precinct in August this year.

“One suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and was subsequently linked to a murder case registered in November 2025.”

Two additional suspects were arrested for dealing in drugs, while an undocumented foreign national was arrested on drug-related charges. Another suspect was arrested for the illegal possession of ammunition.

Traut says the operation also resulted in the seizure of a 9mm pistol, a pistol magazine, 76 rounds of 9mm ammunition, 37 sachets of crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as tik, and three mandrax tablets.