Operation Shanela: Tshwane Police Crackdown Leads to 554 Arrests

In a significant blow to criminal activities in Tshane, a sprawling operation led by the Acting District Commissioner of Tshwane, Brigadier Samuel Thine, has seen as many as 554 suspects taken into custody over a single weekend. This extensive safety and security operation saw the coming together of multiple departments and law enforcement agencies, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Home Affairs, Gauteng Traffic, Tshwane Metro Police Department, and Community Policing Forums.

Officers from various SAPS stations contributed significantly to the successful implementation of the operation which was largely focused on routine patrols in high-crime zones, compliance checks, illegal alcohol sale clampdowns, and immediate response to criminal activities.

The weekend's sweep yielded 243 arrests from general policing in Tshwane for a spectrum of crimes ranging from assault, housebreaking, and public intoxication, to the more severe offenses such as driving under the influence and armed robbery.

A highlight of the operation, dubbed Operation Shanela, was the precise enforcement in Wierdabrug and Olievenhoutbosch which led to the apprehension of 228 suspects by the Tshwane Detective teams. These included perpetrators of grave crimes including murder, rape, and offenses under the banner of gender-based violence.

In a coordinated effort, five liquor premises in the area were inspected, resulting in the shut-down of four due to violations of the Liquor Act. Authorities also confiscated a sizable cache of illicit alcohol and discovered 3 ziplock bags of Crystal meth which had been discarded.

Stemming from these activities, 52 individuals were detained pending deportation due to undocumented status. Additionally, an arrest was made for the illegal employment of foreign nationals.

Tshwane Metro Police Department showcased their vigilant enforcement with stop-and-search operations where 612 individuals and 345 vehicles were inspected. Operations led to the seizure of 350 cartons of illicit cigarettes, with one person facing charges for possession.

One of the most critical successes of the weekend was the halting of a metallic grey Audi in Olievenhoutbosch with seven occupants, during which an unlicensed firearm, reported stolen during a 2021 house robbery, was recovered. All occupants were arrested with the inquiry ongoing, and the firearm slated for ballistic examination to determine any links to other crimes.

Law and order were further upheld through traffic enforcement, with 49 Aarto traffic infringement notices issued totaling fines of R27,250.

Brigadier Thine has extended heartfelt thanks to all who were involved in this large-scale operation. These efforts go a long way in demonstrating the combined potency of the various agencies working in unison to fortify the safety and order of Tshwane. The crackdown not only brings those who flout the law to justice but also acts as a deterrent to potential offenders, promising enhanced security for the community.