SAPS leads Operation Shanela, arresting over 300 suspects in Tshwane
More than 300 suspects were arrested by the SAPS during Operation Shanela in Attridgeville township in Tshwane.
Image: Supplied/SAPS
The SAPS in Tshwane district, in collaboration with multiple law enforcement agencies, conducted a high-impact anti-crime operation, Operation Shanela, in Atteridgeville township on Saturday night.
The operation resulted in the arrest of over 300 suspects for various crimes, including murder and attempted murder.
Captain Johan van Dyk, spokesperson for the Tshwane District, said the operation was part of the district's ongoing commitment to zero tolerance for crime, prioritising increased visibility, order restoration, and enhanced community safety.
"Operation Shanela is a national initiative that brings together multiple law enforcement agencies to strengthen police visibility, execute targeted arrests, and disrupt criminal activities," he said.
Under the leadership of acting district Commissioner Brigadier Moses Dladla, the operation employed a structured approach, featuring roadblocks, stop-and-searches, compliance inspections, and the tracing of wanted suspects.
Van Dyk said the primary goal was to enhance community safety through visible policing and collaborative efforts with stakeholders.
The operation resulted in the arrest of 251 suspects by detectives, including 66 for gender-based violence-related offenses, two for murder, five for attempted murder, three for armed robbery, and five for rape.
Additionally, 31 undocumented foreign nationals were detained and are being processed by immigration authorities.
During the operation, 1,210 people and 890 vehicles were searched, leading to the arrest of 18 persons for driving under the influence of alcohol. A total of 86 traffic infringement notices were issued, amounting to R47,050.
The police also patrolled and searched 33 crime hotspots, resulting in 10 arrests for public drinking and one arrest for drug possession.
In addition, 33 liquor outlets were inspected, with six closed for non-compliance.
A total of 495,810 ml of liquor and a gambling machine were confiscated, leading to two arrests for illegal gambling.
Brigadier Dladla praised the teamwork among all participating departments and highlighted the importance of community support in the fight against crime.
He said the operation demonstrates the SAPS's commitment to enhancing community safety and restoring order in Tshwane.
rapula.moatshe@inl.co.za