Over 300 arrested in police operation

Operation Shanela yielded positive results as police arrested 320 suspects for various crimes in Soshanguve in the north of Pretoria on September 26.

The suspects were arrested for crimes ranging from stolen vehicles, possession of unlicensed firearms, assault, housebreaking, public drinking and armed robbery.

The police executed the operation with the help of other stakeholders including the Department of Home Affairs, Labour, Gauteng Traffic Department, Tshwane Metro Police Department, Community Policing Forums, Crime Prevention Wardens and elected councillors.

According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Johan Van Dyk, the operation entailed high-visibility patrols in crime hotspots, compliance inspections, and raids on illicit liquor outlets.

Van Dyk said the activities included patrols in high-crime areas, compliance inspections, and crackdowns on illegal alcohol sales.

“244 individuals were arrested for offences such as gender-based violence, murder, attempted murder, armed robbery and rape.

“One suspect was arrested for murder, nine for attempted murder, three for rape, six for armed robbery, and 63 for gender-based violence,” said Van Dyk.

The team inspected 28 liquor premises and found five non-compliant with the Liquor Act.

“A total of 544 870ml of liquor was confiscated and will be destroyed upon finalisation of the criminal cases,” said Van Dyk.

Van Dyk said 59 undocumented foreigners were detained and will undergo deportation once the legal processes have been finalised.

“Seven suspects were also arrested for possession of drugs when the police found 172 packets and 24 matchboxes containing various drugs including crystal meth and nyaope.

“Police detained one suspect for possession of dangerous weapons.”

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