Police raid Pretoria hotspots during crime operation
A large law enforcement operation in Pretoria Central and West targeted crime hotspots, liquor outlets and road users. Numerous suspects were arrested, drugs were seized and several businesses were fined for violating liquor regulations.
The SAPS and partners recently descended on the Pretoria Central and West areas during Operation Shanela on March 5, resulting in the arrest of 355 people.
Tshwane District communication co-ordinator, Captain Johan van Dyk, said the arrests included violent offences such as murder, armed robberies, and gender-based violence (GBV).
“Among those taken into custody were three suspects for murder, five for attempted murder, six for armed robbery, and six for rape. Furthermore, 91 individuals were arrested on charges related to GBV, reflecting our ongoing commitment to protecting vulnerable members of society,” Van Dyk said.
During various roadblocks and patrols, 519 people and 274 vehicles were searched.
Police checked 85 vehicles to ensure they were not stolen, and 59 undocumented immigrants were detained for processing by immigration officials.
Liquor enforcement inspected 26 outlets, and eight of these premises were closed down and fined for violating the Liquor Act, with alcohol confiscated.
Additionally, traffic authorities issued 73 AARTO infringement notices totalling R28 550 for various road traffic violations.
“In targeted patrols across 27 identified crime hotspots, police intercepted a suspect in possession of 589 bags of nyaope and an undisclosed amount of cash. The individual, who now faces charges for drug dealing, will also be charged with bribery after attempting to offer money to the arresting officers in exchange for his release,” Van Dyk added.
Major-General Samuel Thine, who led the effort, has expressed his sincere gratitude to all the men and women in uniform, as well as external stakeholders, for their tireless efforts in making Pretoria a safer place for all residents.
The operation was carried out by various SAPS units and partnering stakeholders, including the Department of Home Affairs, TMPD, Gauteng Provincial Traffic, the Department of Community Safety, and local CPFs.
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