Police in Tshwane successfully conducted Operation Shanela on May 8 in the policing precincts of Villieria and Silverton.
The operation was executed by a multi-disciplinary law enforcement team comprising various departments.
According to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, the operation saw police arrest 348 suspects for various offences.
“Through crime analysis, strategic planning, and targeted execution, the operation led to the apprehension of wanted suspects, enhanced visibility through the deployment of additional police resources, and ensured compliance with liquor regulations in the affected areas,” he said.
Van Dyk said Tshwane detectives arrested 263 suspects for various offences, including 72 for gender-based violence-related, 24 for assault in domestic violence cases, 3 for attempted murder, 6 for armed robbery and 6 for rape.
He said that a roadblock in Silverton, supported by two operations teams, was conducting compliance inspections and law enforcement activities across the district.
“The roadblock led to the detention of 73 undocumented individuals, who are currently undergoing legal processing for deportation. One individual was arrested and charged with transporting an illegal immigrant,” Van Dyk said.
He said 882 individuals and 434 vehicles were searched, while 25 vehicles underwent verification to determine if they were reported stolen.
“A suspect was arrested at the roadblock when an assault rifle with 93 live rounds was discovered and confiscated.
Another individual was arrested and charged under the Precious Metals Act after a quantity of gold dust was found in his possession,” van Dyk explained.
He said 81 identified premises and crime hotspots were searched, resulting in four arrests for possession and dealing in drugs.
“Police confiscation 40 sachets of various drugs, half of a mandrax tablet and an undisclosed amount of cash.”
In addition, Van Dyk said traffic law enforcement efforts resulted in the issuing of 185 Aarti fines amounting to R95 500 for violations of the Road Traffic Act.
“Liquor compliance inspections included 18 establishments, all of which were found to be in full compliance with the Liquor Act,” he said.
Major-General Samuel Thine commended all SAPS members and stakeholders for their dedication and professionalism.
He emphasised that disruptive crime-prevention operations will continue across Tshwane as part of sustained efforts to address the root causes of crime and enhance public safety.
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