A total of 279 suspects were arrested across Ekurhuleni during the multi-disciplinary Operation Shanela conducted between April 8 and 9.
The operation, led by Acting District Commissioner Brigadier David Ngcobo, targeted crime hotspots across the district, including Actonville and Brackendowns.
Of those arrested, 213 suspects were apprehended by detectives during tracing operations across various policing precincts.
Police confirmed that 148 were linked to contact crimes, 18 to property-related offences, and 30 to gender-based violence, while 45 were arrested for other serious crimes.
In Actonville, where the main operation was conducted, 12 traffic fines amounting to R8 300 were issued.
SAPS officers also arrested 22 individuals for for contravention of the immigration act, two for selling liquor without a license, and two for possession of drugs.
Additional arrests included one suspect for unlawful possession of medication and one for possession of illicit cigarettes.
Further arrests were made during a simultaneous operation in Brackendowns.
Members of Crime Intelligence, who conducted groundwork ahead of the operation, also secured two arrests related to drug possession, including one for dealing in meth and Mandrax, and another for possession of dagga.
As part of the broader operation, SAPS mechanics in Benoni conducted vehicle inspections to ensure cars on the road were roadworthy, adding another layer to the enforcement efforts.
Beyond law enforcement, Social Crime Prevention units visited a Ekukhanyeni Primary School in Actonville to address issues such as bullying, substance abuse and fighting on school premises.
Community engagement meetings were also held in both Actonville and Brackendowns to address crime concerns and strengthen ties between law enforcement and residents.
Tebogo Sibeko, a resident of Actonville expressed her concerns and gratitude. “I am greatful that the police come and conduct these searches, it makes me feel safe and seen. I hope they continue catching these criminals,” she said.
Ngcobo thanked SAPS members, EMPD, Gauteng Traffic and other stakeholders for their role in the operation.
“We appreciate the continued commitment from all stakeholders in ensuring that crime is reduced and communities feel safer,” he said.
He added that further reinforcements are expected to support policing efforts across Gauteng.
“The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) will be deployed to police stations across Gauteng as part of efforts to strengthen crime-fighting capacity. However, it has not yet been announced when the deployment will take place or whether it will specifically focus on illegal mining activities,” Ngcobo said.
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