A massive crime prevention operation in Tshwane's Villieria and Silverton areas has led to the arrest of 328 suspects, including arrests for serious crimes such as murder, rape, and gender-based violence.
Operation Shanela, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, also tackled drunk driving and illegal immigration.
Tshwane district police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk reported that during the first phase of the operation, 247 suspects were arrested for serious offences. These included 66 for gender-based violence, 30 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, six for murder, one for attempted murder, one for armed robbery, and five for rape.
Van Dyk added that undocumented individuals were detained during the operations.
“46 undocumented individuals were detained and are awaiting legal proceedings for deportation. Additionally, another person was arrested and fined for employing illegal immigrants,” he said.
He further said during a roadblock 625 individuals and 183 vehicles were searched during the operation. This resulted in the arrest of 17 individuals for driving under the influence of alcohol with 14 AARTO traffic infringement notices issued to the value of R14 250.
Additionally, law enforcement officers identified and searched 39 premises and hotspots, leading to the arrest and fining of 12 individuals for drinking in public. Four suspects were apprehended for drug dealing and possession, with 17 Ziplock bags containing various drugs, including crystal meth and dagga, seized during the operation.
Van Dyk added that police confiscated 291,285 millilitres of liquor due to non-compliance with the Liquor Act, and four liquor establishments were shut down.
“12 liquor establishments were inspected, with 4 closed for non-compliance with the Liquor Act. A total of 291 285 millilitres of liquor were confiscated and will be destroyed pending legal proceedings,” he said.
The successful operation, coordinated and led by Major-General Samuel Thine, District Commissioner of Tshwane, was carried out in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Department of Community Safety, Gauteng Traffic Police, Tshwane Metro Police, the Department of Home Affairs, local security companies, and Community Policing Forums.
Thine expressed his appreciation to all members involved in the operation.
The Star