Hundreds arrested in Gauteng during weekend crime blitz
Over 330 suspects were arrested across Gauteng during high-density operations and Operation Shanela targeting drugs, alcohol offences, and immigration violations.
Gauteng law enforcement agencies remain steadfast in their mission to bring criminals to justice.
During the weekend of May 30 to June 1, more than 330 suspects were arrested across all five regions of the province as part of high-density operations and Operation Shanela.
The operations were led by the Gauteng Traffic Police, Gauteng traffic wardens, and the SAPS, working alongside other agencies.
In the City of Ekurhuleni, a total of 69 arrests were recorded across areas including Etwatwa, Thembisa, Benoni, Springs, Boksburg, Tokoza, Dunnottar, Norkem Park, Duduza, Primrose, and Zonkizizwe.
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A total of 15 people were arrested for driving under the influence while another 14 were taken into custody for possession of drugs and five for selling liquor without a licence.
In total, 944 people and 416 vehicles were searched in the city.
Operations in Mabopane, Akasia, Mamelodi, Sunnyside, and Olievenhoutbosch resulted in 96 arrests, including 38 for public drinking, 17 for drinking and driving, 10 for contravening the Immigration Act and eight for theft.
A total of 642 individuals and 284 vehicles were searched.
In Sedibeng District Municipality authorities arrested 80 suspects, with charges including 28 for driving under the influence, 24 for contravention of the Immigration Act and 19 for possession of drugs.
Searches were conducted on 1198 people and 450 vehicles in Sebokeng, Orange Farm, Evaton, Vanderbijlpark, Boipatong, and Barrage.
On the West Rand, a total of 67 arrests were made in Mohlakeng and Westonaria, with 40 of these resulting from Operation Shanela.
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Officers searched 999 people and 532 vehicles in the area.
In the City of Johannesburg, operations were conducted in Dobsonville, Doornkop, Protea Glen, Naledi, and Ennerdale, and led to 18 arrests, mainly for drug possession and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Gauteng Department of Community Safety spokesperson Ofentse Morwane praised the ongoing collaboration between agencies and commended officials for their dedication.
“Drinking and driving, public drinking, and possession and dealing in drugs remain serious concerns that law enforcement continues to address decisively,” he said.
