SAPS Reinforces Operations Against Crime for Long Weekend

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced its intensified state enforcement plan as the country gears up for a busy long weekend. The institution aims to effectively address serious and violent crimes through elevated police visibility and intelligence-driven operations.

Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, stated that the enduring Operation Shanela will ensure the relentless pursuit of criminals who shall continue to face the intense rule of law enforcement. From May, Operation Shanela had already led to the arrest of 145,812 suspects across the country on various charges, including heinous crimes like murder and assault.

A notable achievement of this week was the successful raid against four cash-in-transit robbery suspects in Limpopo. The encounter ended in a police shootout, resulting in the death of the suspects. One pistol, a rifle, and some stolen money were retrieved from the scene.

In Gauteng, under General Mosikili's leadership, law enforcement succeeded in freeing an 18-year old Wits University student from a kidnapping syndicate primarily targeting the LGBTQI+ community through a dating app. The group is also suspected in various other reported cases where ransom demands were made.

Simultaneously, SAPS managed to hold 867 individuals indulged in illegal mining activities in the Northern Cape's Namaqua region.

General Mosikili acknowledges the crucial support of key stakeholders such as local businesses, private security, and community participation in their intensified battle against crime, especially as the nation approaches a hectic long weekend.