West Rand Operational Response Services Brigadier Levy Mere led a successful multidisciplinary high-density Operation Shanela in the West Rand District on Thursday, April 30, as part of police’s efforts to curb crime.

During the operation, law enforcement agencies conducted roadblocks and stop-and-search actions, resulting in the apprehension of 11 illegal immigrants.

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According to Mere, nine suspects were arrested for possession of drugs, while one suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm. In addition, eight suspects were arrested for illegal mining activities and two suspects were arrested for tampering with essential infrastructure. Two more suspects were arrested for possession of copper cable. Traffic officials also issued fines totalling R7 000 for non-compliance with regulations.

Provincial detectives also carried out overnight operations across the province, which led to the arrest of 921 suspects for various offences, including 213 suspects arrested for crimes against women and children.