More than 240 suspects were arrested across Ekurhuleni during Operation Shanela Two, as police and law-enforcement stakeholders intensified efforts to crack down on crime in communities.

The arrests were made during operations conducted from August 5 to 6, targeting offences ranging from contact and property crimes to drug-related offences, illegal immigration, unlicensed liquor trading, and gender-based violence.

Read more: Ivory Park residents call for stronger police action as crime fears grow

Ekurhuleni District Police spokesperson Captain Neldah Sekgobela said detectives across the district’s policing precincts arrested 223 suspects on August 5 while tracing wanted suspects linked to various serious offences.

The operation continued on August 6, with acting Ekurhuleni District Commissioner Brigadier Mbongeni David Ngcobo leading operations in Rabie Ridge and Dunnottar.

According to Sekgobela, 40 suspects were arrested for being in the country illegally, while one suspect was arrested for possession of drugs and three for selling liquor without a licence.

Two vehicles were also impounded, while 19 traffic fines amounting to R8 900 were issued. The operation also targeted illegal mining activities in Dunnottar, where police seized 15 spades and eight picks.

Sekgobela said members of the Ekurhuleni District Crime Intelligence unit had worked ahead of the operation and arrested five suspects for drug-related offences. “Drugs such as crystal meth and mandrax were confiscated,” said Sekgobela.

Also read: Police arrest suspect following death of female security officer at Midrand training centre

The operation also extended beyond arrests and enforcement, with police and stakeholders conducting school safety initiatives and crime-awareness activities in the affected communities.

“Parallel to Operation Shanela Two, members of social crime prevention and other stakeholders conducted school safety searches at two secondary schools in Rabie Ridge and one primary school in Dunnottar.”

A crime-awareness campaign was also held at Tonk Meter Mall in Dunnottar as authorities sought to engage residents and raise awareness about crime prevention.

Ngcobo thanked the stakeholders and other law enforcement agencies for their efforts and commitment shown in both the operations that led to the achievement of success.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!