The South African Police Service in Tshwane continues to record positive outcomes through coordinated crime prevention operations at the start of the new year.
A multidisciplinary law enforcement operation led to the arrest of 345 suspects and the confiscation of liquor during a high-impact Operation Shanela conducted in the Mamelodi East and Silverton policing precincts on Saturday, 10 January 2026.
The operation forms part of an ongoing crime-fighting strategy under the leadership of Acting Tshwane District Commissioner Brigadier Moses Dladla, supported by various SAPS units and key partner stakeholders.
Several law enforcement agencies participated in the deployment, including the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department, the Department of Community Safety, and local Community Policing Forums.
Detectives intensified suspect tracing efforts from Friday night into the early hours of Saturday morning, resulting in the arrest of 259 suspects. Among these were 28 arrests for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, 4 for attempted murder, 4 for armed robbery, and 13 for rape. A further 94 suspects were arrested for offences linked to gender based violence.
High visibility policing actions such as roadblocks, stop and search operations, inspections and patrols were conducted to improve public safety and ensure compliance with the law. During these activities, 325 people and 165 vehicles were searched, while 34 vehicles were checked to confirm they were not stolen. Nine motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol.
A total of 56 undocumented foreign nationals were arrested and handed over to immigration authorities for further processing.
Nineteen liquor outlets were inspected, leading to the closure and fining of 8 outlets for violating the Liquor Act. Police confiscated 317 bottles of 490 ml liquor, along with 1 gambling machine, 1 laptop and 1 paypoint machine.
Three second-hand goods dealers were inspected and found to be compliant with the Second Hand Goods Act.
Traffic officials issued 15 AARTO infringement notices amounting to R12 250 for various Road Traffic Act violations.
Targeted patrols conducted in 27 identified hotspot areas resulted in the arrest of 3 suspects for possession and dealing in drugs after 20 ziplock bags containing various drugs were found. Two individuals were arrested and fined for drinking in public, while 4 others were arrested for illegal gambling.
Brigadier Dladla praised all participating agencies for their commitment and cooperation in the ongoing fight against crime and reiterated the dedication to building safer communities across Tshwane.
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