DE DEUR – A multi-disciplinary Operation Shanela yielded the arrest of 895 suspects for various crimes.

The operation started with the detectives conducting an overnight wanted suspect tracing operation. Included in the number are 197 suspects for crimes committed against women and children.

The second phase of the operation took place along the R82 in the form of a roadblock led by the Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Gauteng, Fred Kekana, alongside the District Commissioner of Sedibeng, Major General Nkhensani Mukwevho.

The duo was joined by senior managers from SAPS provincial and district offices, the Department of Community Safety, Midvaal Traffic, the Department of Home Affairs, Community Policing Forum (CPF), Divine Intervention Pastor, private security, and Youth Desk.

At the roadblock, the multidisciplinary team arrested suspects for illegal immigration, possession of drugs, and a liquor outlet was closed for non-compliance.

Parallel to the roadblock, the team from Provincial Corporate Communication and Marketing engaged motorists to raise awareness by distributing pamphlets on substance abuse, gender-based violence, and crime prevention tips.

The operation aims to assist the stations in reducing crime and stamping the authority of the state.

Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko says the operation moved to the Sebokeng Wastewater Treatment Plant, where authorities led the destruction of illicit liquor.

“The liquor, which included beer, spirits and whisky, was confiscated during various crime prevention operations conducted throughout the Sedibeng District from May. The destruction is part of the efforts by law enforcement to address the illegal dealing of liquor. Liquor remains one of the greatest contributors to domestic violence and contact crimes such as murder and assault.”