Gauteng police, together with West Rand law enforcement departments, arrested 1 016 suspects for various serious crimes, including rape, hijacking, kidnapping, and other offences during Operation Shanela conducted across the province.

According to the Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Policing, Major General Fred Kekana, police also impounded two vehicles with tampered or invalid number plates during the operation. He added that Bekkersdal police have opened an inquiry docket for further investigation into the vehicles.

The province-wide operation, conducted across Gauteng’s five policing districts on March 7, also resulted in the closure of 11 liquor outlets found to be non-compliant with regulations.

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During the operation, 40 suspects were arrested for drunk driving, while three others were arrested for selling liquor without a valid licence.

In addition, detectives arrested more than 1 752 suspects, including 190 individuals linked to crimes against women and children.

Operation Shanela continues to target serious crime and illegal activities across the province, including communities on the West Rand.