The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that more than 50 suspects were arrested in Alexandra on Saturday.

This was during the multidisciplinary Operation Shanela II, led by Gauteng Provincial Head of Police Emergency Services (PES) Brigadier Kubendran Govender and the Provincial Head of Operational Response Services (ORS) Brigadier Levy Tsheko Lesego Mere.

Read more: Police concerned over rising hijacking and kidnapping trend in Alexandra

The operation saw teams carry out a series of enforcement actions in Alexandra, including roadblocks, stop-and-searches, vehicle checkpoints, and raids on liquor outlets.

According to the official statement, 16 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, and more than 35 suspects were taken into custody for crimes including dealing in drugs, attempted murder, rape, and possession of ammunition.

Police also clamped down on liquor outlets operating illegally in the community. “Five liquor outlets found to have been operating without valid licenses have been closed down,” SAPS revealed.

Also read: Police need help to crack down on drug dealers

The arrests come on the back of multiple incidents reported in Alexandra. On Saturday afternoon, local police rescued a man from an angry mob in Tsutsumani.

Reports indicate that he was being held in connection with the fatal stabbing of another man in the township.

Meanwhile, a body was discovered at 2nd Avenue and Reverend Sam Buti Street. Authorities have not yet confirmed the gender of the deceased or the cause of death.

Operation Shanela II comes amid Alexandra’s ongoing battle against violent crime, drug dealing, and a spate of hijacking incidents that have left local police on high alert.

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