"South Africa's Johannesburg authorities have increased police patrols and set up roadblocks in the city and surrounding areas in preparation for the upcoming New Year's celebrations, following a series of recent deadly shootings. Footage filmed on Wednesday shows residents setting off fireworks while police monitor crowded streets and conduct searches for illegal weapons, drugs, and intoxicated drivers. "As the year is ending, we know this is a busy period […] we are here to ensure that, firstly, there is compliance, and secondly, that people are safe," said Xolani Fihla, spokesperson for the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department. "With the roadblocks being conducted, we’re checking for traffic violations, but also for any suspected criminal elements, such as illegal firearms and illicit substances," he continued. General Tommy Mthombeni of Gauteng Police noted that following the launch of the Safer Festive Season operation, 26,744 suspects have been arrested. "Out of those, 101 were for murder and 104 were for attempted murder [...] We have since recovered over 100 firearms and arrested the individuals in possession of them," he specified. The operation is reportedly coordinated with immigration authorities and private security. It comes after at least nine people were killed and ten others injured in Bekkersdal's tavern, prompting authorities to increase security to prevent similar tragedies. "