Mpumalanga — South African Police Service (SAPS) officers have confiscated a python during a multi-pronged law-enforcement operation in Mpumalanga, as several suspects were arrested for a range of offences under Operation Safer Festive Season.
The operation was conducted on Friday, 9 January 2026, in the Gert Sibande District, with police focusing on the Bethal and Carolina policing areas, SAPS confirmed.
In an unrelated incident during the operation, officers seized a python from an individual found to be in possession of the animal. Police said the reptile was handed over to the SPCA for safe handling and further care.
“The animal was confiscated and handed over to the SPCA,” SAPS said in a statement, without disclosing further details about the circumstances under which the python was being kept.
#sapsMP Several arrests were affected during Operation #SaferFestiveSeason carried out on Friday, 09 January 2026 in the Gert Sibande District where the focus was on Bethal and Carolina policing areas.
Two suspects, aged 39 and 43 were arrested separately for possession of… pic.twitter.com/98GCPLUt0L
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) January 10, 2026
The seizure formed part of a broader crackdown that led to several arrests across the district. Two suspects, aged 39 and 43, were arrested separately for possession of illicit cigarettes with an estimated combined value of about R93,000.
In Bethal’s central business district, police also arrested a 41-year-old suspect during a coordinated stop-and-search operation at a tavern. The suspect was found in possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
Additionally, a 37-year-old man was arrested on charges of bribery after he allegedly attempted to bribe police officers with R1,000 in a bid to prevent the arrest of another suspect.
SAPS said the ongoing operation forms part of efforts to clamp down on crime and ensure public safety during the festive season.
Police have reiterated that investigations into the various cases are continuing, while the suspects are expected to appear in court on relevant charges.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
