SEDIBENG: On Friday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Sedibeng conducted a high-impact, crime-combating operation with the execution of Operation Shanela, focusing on the Sebokeng policing precinct.

The collaborative efforts of all participating units yielded significant results, culminating in the apprehension of (116) suspects for criminal offenses as follows:

– Robbery with a weapon other than a firearm

– Assault GBH

– Common Assault (GBV related)

– Common Assault

– Rape

– Housebreaking and theft

– Theft of motor vehicle

– Possession of drugs

– Possession of stolen property

– Theft

– Fraud

– Malicious damage to property

– Intimidation

– Contravention of a Protection Order

– Possession of human parts

– Illegal immigrants

– Malicious damage to property

– Selling liquor without a valid liquor license

– Driving under the influence of alcohol

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane said that before the day of Weekend Operation Shanela, detectives from across the Sedibeng District were instrumental in securing (81) arrests, which included suspects linked to gender-based violence-related cases.

“ On the day of the operation, (35) suspects were arrested as a strong focus on visible policing was maintained and it included an intensified deployment to enforce liquor compliance regulations, trace wanted suspects, and execute law enforcement patrols in known hotspots. Whereby a strategic roadblock was also placed in Golden Highway Road Sebokeng, reinforcing operational teams deployed across Sedibeng, resulted in the arrest of drunk drivers and undocumented foreign nationals, who are currently undergoing processing for court proceedings and deportation.”

Law enforcement officials conducted searches on (352) individuals and (194) vehicles, while (20) vehicles were tested to determine their status in relation to theft/hijacking.

Additionally, crime hotspot locations, (12) identified premises, filling stations, malls, taxi ranks, banks, ATMs, liquor establishments, and during these patrols, (4) suspects were arrested for possession of drugs and (3) for selling liquor without a valid liquor license.

Traffic law enforcement also formed a key part of the operation, whereby officers issued (25) AARTO infringement notices valued at R 12500,00 for various road traffic violations.

“The operation’s name “Shanela”, signifies its goal to “sweep” crime and its perpetrators off the streets through a range of high-visibility tactics like roadblocks, stop-and-searches, and targeted raids. It involves a coordination of different law enforcement agencies to ensure a more comprehensive approach to crime fighting,” Mokhachane ended.

The Sedibeng District Commissioner, Major General Nkhensani Mukwevho, extended her gratitude to all SAPS members, involved Stakeholders and the Community Patrollers for their dedication and unwavering support.