Operation Shanela nets over 1 100 in Gauteng

The collaboration between multiple law enforcement agencies to combat crime in Gauteng remains steadfast, with the ongoing Operation Shanela yielding over 1 100 arrests.

This multi-disciplinary operation, a joint effort between the SAPS, the metro police department, the Department of Home Affairs, Community Safety, traffic authorities, private security companies and the CPF, was held across all five districts of the province from December 5 to 9.

Operation Shanela, which will intensify through the festive season, addresses various forms of criminal activity, particularly in areas with high crime rates.

Officers arrested over 100 individuals in Alberton through crime prevention activities, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and regular hotspot patrols.

The law enforcers also did compliance inspections at liquor outlets, second-hand goods dealers and scrapyards.

According to reports, the operation saw the arrest of 301 people for drunk driving, public drinking, possession of and dealing drugs and violating the Immigration Act.

Authorities have praised these operations’ effectiveness in reducing alcohol-related and drug-related offences, which are often linked to other crimes.

This operation saw the capture of 799 wanted individuals apprehended for serious crimes, including murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, rape, armed robbery, attempted murder and house burglary, among others.

While some people were released after paying fines, many face charges that various magistrates’ courts will address from December 9.

The community must remain vigilant and report criminal activity to local police stations.

Alternatively, people can anonymously report any crime information to the Crime Stop Line at 086 001 0111.