VANDERBIJLPARK – A busy two-day sting operation saw Vanderbijlpark streets swept squeaky clean of crime.

This comes after the Sedibeng Cluster Police flooded the civic centre and neighbouring townships with flashing blue lights during Operation Shanela.

The operation resulted in the arrest of a total of 153 suspects, the issuance of 42 traffic fines to motorists for various violations, penalties for two second-hand goods dealers with J534 notices for non-compliance, the seizure of drugs, and the confiscation of illegal cigarettes.

Held on May 21 and 22, the operation saw men and women in blue team up with detectives, traffic officers, and other law enforcement units to bring a heavy hand down on criminal activity.

Sedibeng police spokesperson Sergeant Thembeka Maxambela confirmed detectives made 110 arrests.

“The social crime prevention campaign saw our officers sweep through Suiderlig High School, searching for dangerous weapons and illegal substances.

A total of 1 200 learners were screened, and no serious threats were identified,” she said.

Maxambela added that later in the morning, the civic centre saw an unexpected yet welcome event as Brigadier Manamela and top SAPS brass hosted a public engagement session.

“Business owners and community members gathered to raise concerns and discuss strategies to curb crime, particularly around the CBD and surrounding hotspots,” she said.

According to Maxambela, the Social Crime Prevention, supported by the CPF and traffic wardens, conducted an awareness campaign at the local taxi rank.

“More than 200 informative pamphlets were distributed focusing on how to report gender-based violence, contact information for Vanderbijlpark SAPS management, and also how to report poor police service delivery.”