The West Rand played a key role in Gauteng’s drive against violent crime, with 32 suspects arrested for serious offences, including assaults on women and children, as part of the Safer Festive Season Operation Shanela II.

Across the province, police apprehended 157 suspects wanted for crimes against women and children, and a further 540 suspects were taken into custody for other serious offences, including murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, assault GBH, rape, and sexual assault. Arrests were carried out through roadblocks, stop-and-search operations, and liquor compliance inspections.

Other districts also recorded notable arrests: Johannesburg saw 30 suspects apprehended in Alexandra and Bramley; Tshwane recorded 71 arrests in Silverton and Eesterust; and Sedibeng and Ekurhuleni together accounted for 39 arrests.

The operation, led by Gauteng Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, is conducted in two phases.

“The first phase focused on tracing and arresting wanted suspects, while the second phase emphasised crime prevention to ensure safe communities during the festive season,” said Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi.

All suspects arrested are scheduled to appear in various Gauteng magistrate courts starting on November 24.

Police have reiterated their commitment to combating violent crime, particularly gender-based violence, sending a clear message that such offences will not be tolerated.