Police and other law enforcement groups across the Ekurhuleni District arrested 221 suspects between July 11 and 13 as part of a major crime operation aimed at improving safety in communities such as Alberton.

Of these, 161 arrests were made during a suspect-tracing operation under Operation Shanela on July 11.

Charges include: 28 gender-based violence-related offences; 92 contact crimes, including assault; 36 other serious offences.

While the main operation took place in Tembisa, led by acting provincial commissioner Major General Mbuso Khumalo, similar efforts were carried out in other precincts, including Alberton. In Tembisa, illegal liquor outlets were closed, drugs were seized, and an unlicensed firearm was recovered.

Other district highlights include:

In Crystal Park, a white Toyota Etios carrying dagga was stopped by highway patrol officers.

In Nigel, police discovered illegal mining equipment during a joint operation. Items seized included pendukas, a gas cylinder, generators, steel frames, oxygen bottles, motors, steel pots, stampers, connector-capped fuses, and blasting cartridges.

Ekurhuleni District Commissioner, Major General Anna Sithole, praised the dedication of officers and encouraged community members, including those in Alberton, to report any suspicious activity.

“We urge communities to work hand in hand with the police by providing accurate information that can assist investigations and prevent crime,” said Sithole.

Residents of Alberton are reminded to report criminal activities to their local SAPS station or call Crime Stop at 08600 10111.