The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Tshwane continues to intensify its zero-tolerance stance against crime through integrated operations conducted in collaboration with various law enforcement partners. On Thursday, 23 October 2025, another successful operation was executed in the Pretoria West and Pretoria Central policing precincts under the banner of Operation Shanela.
These operations form part of the SAPS’s ongoing commitment to combating and reducing crime across the City of Tshwane. The operation was meticulously planned and executed under the command of the District Commissioner of Tshwane, Major-General Samuel Thine, with the support of multiple SAPS units and members across the district, the Department of Home Affairs, Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD), Gauteng Traffic Police, the Department of Community Safety, and members of various Community Policing Forums (CPFs).
During the first phase of the operation, led by the Detectives, 303 suspects were arrested for various criminal offences, including four for murder, four for attempted murder, two for armed robbery, and four for rape.
In the second phase, two operational teams were assembled and patrolled the streets with a roadblock that was executed and compliance inspections. This resulted in the detention of 96 undocumented foreign nationals, who were handed over to immigration authorities, while one employer was arrested and fined for employing illegal immigrants.
A total of 1 420 persons and 890 vehicles were searched during the operation.
Police also patrolled seven identified hotspots, and 15 liquor outlets were inspected for compliance with the Liquor Act. Three outlets were closed after being found non-compliant, and 64 020 ml of liquor was confiscated. Several security companies were also inspected, found to be in contravention of the PSIRA Act, and subsequently fined. In addition, one individual was arrested and fined for public drinking.
In another incident, a firearm was recovered from a suspect who failed to produce a valid firearm license or provide a reasonable explanation for possession. The suspect was arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition. The recovered firearm will undergo ballistic testing to determine whether it has been used in the commission of other crimes.
A significant milestone of the operation was the destruction of
6 541 545 ml of confiscated liquor, which had been seized during previous operations across the Tshwane District. The liquor was stored as evidence in cases where outlets were found to be operating in violation of the Liquor Act. Following the conclusion of the relevant legal proceedings, the liquor was destroyed under controlled conditions in compliance with SAPS and environmental regulations. This process not only prevents the re-circulation of illicit alcohol into communities but also demonstrates the SAPS’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining the integrity of ongoing enforcement efforts.
Traffic officials played a critical role during the operation by issuing 141 AARTO infringement notices to the value of R76 300. In addition, two vehicles were discontinued, and 16 vehicles were impounded for non-compliance with the Road Traffic Act.
District Commissioner Major-General Samuel Thine expressed his appreciation to all participating departments and stakeholders for their continued collaboration and dedication. He reaffirmed the SAPS’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents, stating that lawlessness will not be tolerated and that Operation Shanela will continue to be intensified across the Tshwane District.
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