(The Post News)- A large-scale crime-fighting initiative, Operation Shanela, resulted in the arrest of 333 suspects in the Tshwane District on 5 September 2024. Led by Major-General Samuel Thine, the District Commissioner of Tshwane, the operation saw law enforcement agencies and community organizations join forces to tackle criminal activity in the region.
The operation, which was launched in Sunnyside, included hi-density patrols, inspections of liquor outlets and second-hand dealers, and targeted searches of known crime hotspots. This collaborative effort aimed to restore safety and clamp down on various criminal elements threatening the district.
Tshwane detectives arrested 292 individuals, including 78 suspects linked to gender-based violence, 15 charged with murder, 5 for attempted murder, 7 for armed robbery, and 2 for rape.
In a crackdown on illegal immigration, 44 undocumented individuals were detained pending legal processes and deportation. Employers of illegal immigrants were not spared, with 3 individuals fined for unlawful employment practices.
Throughout the operation, law enforcement officers conducted thorough searches of 802 people, 389 vehicles, and 8 premises. Investigators checked 20 vehicles for signs of theft, while 8 liquor establishments were inspected, leading to the closure of one non-compliant business and the confiscation of over 54 liters of alcohol. A second-hand dealer was fined for violating the Second-Hand Goods Act.
Further arrests included a suspect caught with 40 packets and 24 boxes of illicit cigarettes. Another individual was apprehended for drug dealing, found in possession of 44.47 grams of dagga and 50 in cash. The latter also faced bribery charges after attempting to bribe the arresting officer.
Eleven security personnel were charged with non-compliance under the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) Act, and traffic officers issued 151 fines amounting to R68,880 for various violations.
Major-General Thine praised the commitment and professionalism of all involved, emphasizing that such efforts are key to making Tshwane a safer place.
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