Cullinan and Ekangala crime blitz leads to mass arrests, fines
Illegal liquor outlets were closed, dozens of wanted suspects caught, and traffic fines issued in a metro-wide sweep.
Over 350 suspects were arrested for various crimes, including murder, attempted murder, rape and armed robbery during crime combating efforts.
Led by Tshwane District Commissioner, Major-General Samuel Thine, the operation focused on tackling crime in the rural communities of Ekangala and Cullinan policing precincts on July 31.
“SAPS in Tshwane intensified its ongoing efforts to combat crime through the continued implementation of Operation Shanela,” he said.
He said SAPS personnel from across the metro were deployed to enhance policing efforts.
“Key activities included continued liquor compliance inspections, the tracing of wanted suspects, and heightened patrols in identified crime hotspots,” he said.
He said district detectives made significant progress in their tracing operations, resulting in the arrest of 318 wanted suspects.
“The arrested suspects include seven for murder, three for attempted murder, four for armed robbery and 10 for rape,” he said.
He added that a roadblock was assembled in Ekangala, with tactical teams deployed in both precincts to increase police visibility.
He stated that, “This operation led to the detention of 30 illegal immigrants, who are currently being processed for court proceedings and possible deportation.”
He said two individuals were fined for employing illegal immigrants.
Van Dyk said during the operation, 1 265 individuals and 509 vehicles were searched, with 35 vehicles being tested to verify ownership.
“The operations resulted in the arrest of a total of 360 suspects for a range of criminal offences,” he said.
Furthermore, he said patrols were conducted in 20 high-crime areas and premises with two second-hand dealers being inspected and fined for contravention of the Second-Hand Goods Act.
“Traffic officers provided valuable support by issuing 102 AARTO infringement notices amounting to R39 000 for various traffic-related offences.”
He then said that, as part of liquor law enforcement, 10 liquor outlets were inspected, with five outlets that were shut down for non-compliance with the Liquor Act.
“Alcohol, three speakers and a fridge were confiscated,” he said.
He concluded by saying the SAPS urges members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity by contacting Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or by using the My SAPS App.
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