A multidisciplinary crime prevention operation conducted across the Mamelodi and Mamelodi East policing precincts has resulted in the arrest of 355 suspects for a range of serious offences.

The arrests were made during Operation Shanela on Saturday, August 8, following a coordinated operation involving SAPS, the Department of Home Affairs, TMPD, Gauteng Traffic Police, National Traffic Police and CPFs.

Tshwane police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said the operation was led by Tshwane District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine, while the operational activities on the ground were commanded by a senior female officer from the district in recognition of Women’s Month and the important role women continue to play in law enforcement.

Van Dyk said intensive tracing operations carried out by district detectives from Friday evening into the early hours of Saturday morning resulted in the arrest of 246 wanted suspects linked to serious and violent crimes.

The suspects were wanted for offences including murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, assault and rape.

As part of the operation, compliance inspections targeting immigration and business-related offences were also conducted.

“Law enforcement officials also inspected 20 liquor outlets, resulting in six establishments being closed while more than 755 litres of liquor were confiscated,” he added.

Van Dyk said high-visibility patrols and roadblocks formed part of the operation, during which officers searched 670 people and 381 vehicles.

He said the operation also resulted in the arrest of 43 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol and 17 people for drinking alcohol in public.

One suspect will face an additional charge of assaulting a police officer.

Police also arrested 21 suspects for the possession and dealing of drugs after recovering several zip-lock bags containing various illegal substances.

Van Dyk added that a Volkswagen Polo sedan was impounded after preliminary investigations revealed discrepancies with its vehicle identification number. Police have opened an inquiry into the vehicle.

Major-General Thine praised all participating law enforcement agencies and stakeholders for their commitment during the operation.

“As we mark Women’s Month and celebrate Women’s Day, we recognise and salute the many women who continue to serve with distinction in the South African Police Service and other law enforcement agencies. Women in uniform continue to demonstrate courage, leadership, resilience and commitment in the face of the many challenges associated with policing and the protection of our communities,” said Thine.

He said the appointment of a female senior officer to command the operational activities reflected the growing role of women in leadership within law enforcement.

“We also recognise women beyond the uniform, mothers, daughters, sisters, professionals, community leaders and all women who contribute to building safer, stronger and better communities. Their contribution to society is invaluable and deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.

Thine reiterated that continued cooperation between law enforcement agencies, community structures and other stakeholders remains essential in the fight against crime and in creating safer communities throughout the Tshwane District.

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