By: The Youth Voice Reporter

Police have launched an aggressive festive-season crackdown in Ehlanzeni, sweeping through crime hotspots as arrest numbers surged under Operation Safer Festive Season.The district has emerged as Mpumalanga’s hardest-hit area, recording the highest number of arrests as law-enforcement agencies moved in to curb a spike in crime during the busy holiday period.

Between 26 and 29 December 2025, police arrested 10 suspects across Bushbuckridge, Mhala, Barberton, Masoyi, Pienaar, Kanyamazane and Komatipoort. Suspects, aged between 26 and 40, face charges including illegal immigration, selling and possession of illicit liquor, possession of illicit cigarettes, and possession of gold-bearing material. Police also issued three fines for violations of the Mpumalanga Liquor Act.

These arrests followed earlier high-impact operations conducted between 23 and 25 December, during which 11 suspects were arrested in Ehlanzeni, cementing the district’s position as the province’s arrest hotspot this festive season.Among those arrested earlier:Seven suspects were nabbed in Matsulu and Barberton for illegal immigration, bribery and dealing in daggaFour suspects were arrested in Bushbuckridge and Mhala for illegal immigration and driving under the influence of alcohol

Seven fines were issued for violations of the National Road Traffic ActPolice confirmed that drunk driving remains a major focus, with intensified roadblocks and patrols aimed at preventing festive-season crashes and fatalities.Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the work of officers on the ground, saying the results show police determination to deal decisively with crime and protect the public during the festive season.