Tshwane police officers conducting Operation Shanela roadblock in Rietgat where multiple arrests were made" Tshwane police officers conducting Operation Shanela roadblock in Rietgat where multiple arrests were made.
Image: Picture: Supplied SAPS
In a breakthrough under the banner Operation Shanela, police in Tshwane arrested 327 individuals and seized a stolen vehicle.
The success of the operation was driven by a coordinated effort from a multidisciplinary law enforcement team across various departments, resulting in the arrest of numerous suspects on a range of offences. The operation also prioritised visible policing patrols and enforced liquor license compliance, further strengthening law and order in the region.
Captain Johan Van Dyk, spokesperson for the Tshwane District Police, confirmed that detectives apprehended 254 suspects for a range of offences, including Gender-Based Violence (GBV), assault, murder, rape, armed robbery, and attempted murder.
“Tshwane Detectives apprehended 254 suspects for various offences, including 84 for gender-based violence, 29 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, two for murder, three for attempted murder, five for armed robbery and five for rape.”
He added that a roadblock was set up in Rietgat, with two operational teams carrying out compliance raids and law enforcement operations across the policing areas. This resulted in the search of an additional 590 individuals and 324 vehicles.
“590 individuals and 324 vehicles were searched. Using Tshwane District's mobile operational command vehicle, authorities verified the identities of 134 individuals to determine whether they were wanted for any crimes,” Van Dyk said.
A total of 49 AARTO infringement notices were issued by traffic officials, amounting to R27 250 for violations of the Road Traffic Act.
Van Dyk also mentioned that during the roadblock, officers recovered a Renault Sandero that had been reported stolen in Hercules earlier this month. ''Investigations are ongoing to trace and apprehend the suspects,'' he added.
In addition, 19 undocumented individuals were detained and are now awaiting legal processing for deportation.
Van Dyk further stated that officers identified 25 premises and six crime hotspots for search and patrol, resulting in multiple arrests for possession and dealing drugs.
“Eight individuals were arrested for possession and dealing in drugs, with 21 sachets and six rocks of illegal substances, along with cash, confiscated. Additionally, 20 individuals were arrested and fined for drinking in public, while 19 drivers were apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol,” he said.
Van Dyk also reported that 10 liquor establishments were inspected, resulting in the shutdown of two for failing to comply with the Liquor Act.
As a consequence, a total of 204,400 ml of alcohol was confiscated.
The Star
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