Authorities detained over 360 people suspected of various offences during a crime prevention operation in Kameeldrift and Eersterust on Thursday, October 22.
The Operation Shanela initiative was conducted under the command of Tshwane District Commissioner Major General Samuel Thine, bringing together the South African Police Service (SAPS), Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Traffic Police, Department of Home Affairs, Department of Employment and Labour, and community policing forums.
According to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, detectives conducted tracing operations from Wednesday evening into Thursday morning, resulting in the arrest of 304 wanted suspects linked to serious and violent crimes.
“Those arrested included four suspects wanted for murder, 46 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 44 for common assault related to domestic violence and 14 for rape,” said Van Dyk.
Compliance inspections also resulted in 54 undocumented foreign nationals being detained, while three people were arrested and fined for employing undocumented foreign nationals.
Law enforcement teams also inspected 13 liquor outlets, closing five and confiscating 62.2 litres of liquor.
Roadblocks and vehicle searches
Van Dyk said officers conducted high-visibility patrols and roadblocks at identified crime hotspots.
“Officers searched 473 people and 283 vehicles, while a further 38 vehicles were checked to establish whether they had been reported stolen,” said Van Dyk.
“Traffic officers issued 117 Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences infringement notices, with a combined value of R116 500,” said Van Dyk.
Targeting local crime hotspots
In a separate intervention, officers searched 26 identified crime hotspots, leading to three arrests for alleged drug possession and dealing after three zip-lock bags containing suspected crystal methamphetamine were found.
The Department of Employment and Labour inspected eight business premises and issued contravention notices to all eight owners for non-compliance with labour legislation.
Major General Samuel Thine thanked all stakeholders for participating in the operation.
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