Police operations lead to numerous arrests

Two police operations in the last week resulted in numerous arrests relating to drug possession, driving under the influence, immigration act violations, and selling liquor illegally.

SAPS spokesperson, Captain Daniel Mavimbela, said the focus of the two operations was to assist in curbing crime and fostering a sense of security among residents.

The two operations, O Kae Molao, also known as Operation Shanela, and Vhuthu Hawe targeted various areas of Pretoria from

Olievenhoutbosch and Silverton to Sunnyside and Akasia.

OPERATION O KAE MOLAO

Operation Shanela, which translates to “sweep,” targeted the areas of Olievenhoutbosch and Sunnyside.

This operation started on Thursday and concluded in the early hours of Sunday.

“The primary focus of this operation was on areas requiring special intervention due to high crime rates,” said Mavimbela.

“The success of Operation Shanela in Sunnyside can be attributed to the dedication of the detectives who conducted a suspect raid in Tshwane.

“Their relentless efforts led to the arrest of 229 suspects out of the 242 individuals targeted. A pre-operation raid on Friday proved to be an effective strategy,” he said.

On Saturday, 46 undocumented individuals were apprehended, 14 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence, while 2 others were caught in possession of drugs.

Moreover, 158 motorists received Aarto fines totaling R58,800.

Authorities discovered an employer who was illegally employing undocumented individuals and second-hand goods dealers who were fined for failing to comply with regulations.

The operation further led to the arrests of individuals found in possession of illegal substances, such as nyaope, mandrax, cocaine, and 32 bags of dagga.

“In total, 751 persons and 414 vehicles were searched through various enforcement measures, including roadblocks, stop-and-searches, raids, and foot patrols,” said Mavimbela.

In Olievenhoutbosch on July 13, 54 undocumented individuals were apprehended for violating the Immigration Act.

Seven shebeens were shut down, and businesses received notices from the Department of Labour for contravening regulations, resulting in fines amounting to R11,000.

The operation also saw the issuance of Aarto fines totaling R179,690 and traffic fines amounting to R7,500.

The enforcement activities in Olievenhoutbosch involved the searching of 1,758 persons and 1,077 vehicles.

OPERATION VHUTHU HAWE ARRESTS

Operation Vhuthu Hawe took a more localized approach, with individual police stations partnering with local law enforcement agencies, explained Mavimbela.

“The main aim was to enhance police visibility and execute actions that discourage unlawful activities.”

In Sunnyside on July 10, one suspect was arrested for drug-related offenses.Two others were apprehended for driving under the influence.

Law enforcement officers conducted searches of 128 persons and 30 vehicles. They also visiting various businesses and ATMs in the area.

In Silverton, Operation Vhuthu Hawe led to the arrest of 26 undocumented persons. Searches were conducted on 228 individuals and 88 vehicles.

The operation extended to Akasia, where an individual was arrested for selling liquor illegally.

In Hammanskraal, police closed three illegal shebeens. They also apprehended one suspect for possession of dagga, and arrested four individuals for drinking in public on July 14.

Additionally, 11 more individuals were apprehended for public drinking, and two for possession of dagga.

In Garsfontein, the operation resulted in the arrests of two individuals. They were for drunken driving, eight for public drinking, and one for shoplifting.

Major General Azwinndini Nengovhela acknowledged SAPS members for their commitment, hard work, and dedication to creating a safer community.

“The collaboration between various agencies, including the Departments of Home Affairs, Health, and Tshwane Metro Police, along with community police forums and crime prevention wardens, has been crucial in making these operations effective.

“Through these joint efforts, the Tshwane District Police will continue to uphold the safety and security of the community they serve.”

Mavimbela said that all the suspects arrested during the operations would appear in the Pretoria Magistrates Court soon.

Two stolen vehicles recovered