Tshwane police recovered a stolen vehicle and arrested a fleeing suspect following a high-speed pursuit during crime-tackling operations in the area on May 24.

Close to 300 arrests were made.

The SAPS in Tshwane conducted a high-impact Operation Shanela, with 282 suspects arrested in the Ga-Rankuwa policing precinct.

Major-General Samuel Thine personally commanded the operation, which brought together various law enforcement and community safety partners, including SAPS, Home Affairs, Tshwane metro police, Gauteng traffic police and wardens, and the local CPF.

SAPS spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said the arrests were for a range of criminal offences.

“This success reflects ongoing strategic deployments and intensified visibility operations aimed at rooting out crime and apprehending wanted suspects.”

He said Tshwane District detectives were responsible for 229 of the arrests.

“Among them were, 64 suspects arrested for gender-based violence, 25 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 16 for fraud, 1 for conspiracy to commit murder, 9 for armed robbery, and 1 for rape,” he said.

A roadblock and patrols conducted by two operational teams in Ga-Rankuwa resulted in the arrest of more suspects for various offences, including illegal immigration and illegal gambling.

“Targeted patrols at 22 identified hotspots resulted in several additional arrests and fines, including five for public drinking, one for illegal gambling, and two individuals apprehended for possession of a stolen Toyota Fortuner and housebreaking equipment.”

He said the vehicle has been impounded for further investigation.

Van Dyk added that the patrols led to the detention of 23 undocumented foreign nationals.

“These individuals are currently undergoing legal processes by immigration authorities for deportation.”

He said in a separate incident during the operation, high-visibility police patrols led to the discovery of a suspicious vehicle.

“As officers approached, the driver attempted to flee, nearly colliding with police officers.

“A high-speed pursuit ensued, during which the suspect’s vehicle caused property damage and endangered other road users.”

He said the suspect has been apprehended and is facing charges of attempted murder, as well as reckless and negligent driving.

“Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the individual is linked to further criminal activity.”

Van Dyk further said traffic enforcement units issued 19 Aarto infringement notices, amounting to R8 500 in fines.

“One suspect was arrested for driving without a licence and resisting arrest.

“Eleven vehicles were verified to ensure they were not stolen, and 15 people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.”

He said a total of 828 individuals and 421 vehicles were searched during the operation.

He said liquor compliance inspections were conducted at 12 establishments, five were closed for non-compliance, and alcohol was confiscated.

“Major-General Thine expressed his appreciation to all participating stakeholders for their dedication, collaboration, and continued commitment to community safety,” he concluded.

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