South African police struck hard against crime last week. Operation Shanela arrests reached 17,223 suspects nationwide from October 13 to 19. Officers targeted serious offenses like murder, rape, hijacking, and armed robbery in high-density operations.
The crackdown netted 2,124 most wanted individuals. Among those apprehended during Operation Shanela, police seized 179 unlicensed firearms and 1,275 rounds of ammunition. They also confiscated contraband worth over R7.2 million and recovered 74 stolen vehicles.
KZN Leads in Murder and Rape Captures
KwaZulu-Natal led the charge with Operation Shanela arrests consisting of 40 suspects nabbed for murder and 119 for rape. The province also topped drug possession arrests with 418 cases. Gauteng followed closely with 308 drug-related arrests.
Festive Season Crackdowns Intensify
With the festive season approaching, police plan to expand Operation Shanela across provinces. The weekly operation targets urban and rural crime hotspots with unannounced raids and intelligence-led policing. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola said these arrests send a clear message to criminals. He emphasized that visible policing will remain a priority to ensure safety.
Communities are urged to report suspicious activity to support these efforts. Police stress that cooperation and high-visibility operations are crucial to sustaining the momentum of arrests made through Operation Shanela.
