A high-density weekday Operation Shanela, led by Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, has resulted in the arrest of hundreds of suspects, and the disruption of criminal activity across the Diepsloot and Douglasdale policing precincts.

The multidisciplinary operation, conducted on March 19, saw law enforcement agencies intensify efforts through roadblocks, compliance inspections, and targeted crime prevention activities within the Johannesburg district.

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During the operation, officers arrested one suspect found in possession of a stolen silver Nissan Navara, which had been reported stolen in Vereeniging. Another suspect was apprehended for possession of an unlicensed firearm, which had been reported stolen in Midrand.

“A total of 78 undocumented foreign nationals were apprehended for processing in terms of immigration legislation,” said police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko. “Additionally, three suspects were arrested for possession of drugs.”

Traffic enforcement formed part of the crackdown, with officials impounding a minibus taxi that had a tampered engine, in violation of traffic regulations. Fines amounting to R34 500 were issued.

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“Provincial detectives continued with their efforts in tracking down wanted suspects, resulting in the arrest of 913 suspects overnight. Of these, 183 were arrested for crimes against women and children.”

Sibeko said compliance inspections carried out during the operation resulted in the closure of eight liquor outlets that failed to meet regulatory requirements.

She added that the operation forms part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement to stabilise crime hotspots and ensure community safety in the district.

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