More than 700 wanted suspects are in custody following an intensification of provincial law-enforcement operations in Rand West City and the broader West Rand.

Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said detectives arrested 735 wanted suspects during the province-wide operation. Of these, 422 were linked to contact crimes, and 148 were wanted for crimes against women and children.

The crime prevention phase resulted in further arrests, including 98 suspects for immigration offences, 69 for driving under the influence, 23 for drug possession, and 14 for liquor-related offences.

Other arrests involved suspects allegedly found in possession of unlicensed firearms, suspected stolen property, and gold-bearing material.

Acting Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Major General Fred Kekana welcomed the results and praised the police, metro police, traffic officials, the Department of Home Affairs, private security, CPFs, and other stakeholders for their continued co-operation.

Operation Shanela will continue across the province, targeting serious and violent crime, illegal firearms, drugs, unlawful immigration, and alcohol-related offences.