Johannesburg - At least 251 people were arrested for various crimes during the annual Mangaung African Cultural Festival (Macufe) held in Bloemfontein, Free State, police said on Monday.
“Thousands of people from different walks of life who flocked to Bloemfontein to attend Macufe 2016 packed their bags on Sunday to (to leave to) their different places (homes), except those who were found to have been in conflict with the law and remained behind,” said spokesman Captain Chaka Marope.
“A total of 251 people were arrested during the operation and as it is a common cause, liquor is a contributing factor to the cause of serious and violent crimes, 152 of the arrests were for liquor related offences such as drinking in public and disorderly conduct.”
The popular Macufe festival started on 30 September and ended on Sunday.
Thousands of revellers flock to Bloemfontein every year to enjoy an array of entertainment including music concerts, theatre and comedy shows, soccer and a beauty pageant. The Macufe Cup soccer tournament brought the festival to a close on Sunday.
Law enforcement authorities conducted roadblocks, stop and searches, raided crime hot-spots and monitored event venues to ensure safety.
Marope said 500 vehicles were stopped and searched and 28 traffic fines issued for unroadworthy vehicles, driving without licences and other traffic violations.
Three people suspected of being part of a pick-pocket syndicate were also arrested, said Marope.
“The syndicate members were arrested with six stolen cell phones during the Macufe Jazz event. Two men were from Welkom and the other was believed to be from Gauteng,” Marope said.
“Information is that they always target big events and steal from people enjoying themselves at the events. The trio were screened and found to be having serious previous cases ranging from murder, attempted murder and robberies. One was found having 38 cases pending against him.”
All arrested suspects were due to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
African News Agency