Gauteng provincial commissioner leads fight against crime in Sandton
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni led the second phase of Operation Shanela in Sandton on August 7, yielding significant arrests, vehicle impoundments, and business closures.
Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, today led a high-impact crime-fighting initiative, under Operation Shanela, focusing on Sandton, one of the province’s economic hubs, currently grappling with an increase in violent and property-related crimes.
During the operation, held at the intersection of Pretoria Main Road and Perth Street in Sandton, Mthombeni announced that the operation, now in its second phase, has led to the arrest of over 1 100 suspects across the province, with 250 linked to gender-based violence cases.
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“Why Sandton?” Mthombeni posed. “During our briefing, it became evident that Sandton has some challenges in terms of attempted murders, assaults with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and gender-based violence. Additionally, the station is battling house and business break-ins, and theft out of motor vehicles.”
He emphasised that, while the crimes may appear isolated, they often escalate into more severe offenses, underscoring the importance of early intervention and visible policing.
Among the successes of the second phase of Operation Shanela in Sandton were:
- 65 illegal immigrants were arrested,
- liquor outlets were shut down for non-compliance, and links to criminal activity,
- 1 suspect was arrested for dealing in dagga, and
- 4 unroadworthy vehicles were discontinued from use.
Officers inspect contents of a red bag from a vehicle’s trunk during Operation Shanela. Photo: Xoliswa Zakwe
“Liquor outlets remain a key concern, as they often act as generators of crime, especially during weekends and public gatherings,” continued Mthombeni. “We have also taken a tough stance on illegal immigration, which contributes to criminal syndicates operating under the radar.”
The operation was carried out in collaboration with senior SAPS management, Crime Prevention Wardens, and traffic authorities, underlining an integrated and multidisciplinary approach to fighting crime in Gauteng.
@caxtonjoburgnorth Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, on August 7, led a high-impact crime-fighting initiative, under Operation Shanela, focusing on Sandton. #Crime #Sandton ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North
“As you can see, the operation is integrated,” Mthombeni concluded. “We are here ensuring that communities are, and feel, safe, especially during this important time, as we observe women’s month. Our efforts are focused on restoring law and order, particularly in areas where women and children are most vulnerable to violence and exploitation.”
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