Ongoing crime-fighting efforts in Tshwane continue to send a strong message to criminals as police intensify crime prevention operations during the festive season. A coordinated policing operation conducted in the Atteridgeville precinct on Saturday, 20 December 2025, led to the arrest of 321 suspects and the confiscation of liquor during Operation Shanela.
The operation followed a coordinated strategy led by the Tshwane District Commissioner, Major General Samuel Thine, with support from various SAPS units and partner stakeholders. Law enforcement partners included the Department of Home Affairs, the Tshwane Metro Police Department, Gauteng Provincial Traffic, the Department of Community Safety, and local Community Policing Forums.
Detectives began the operation on Friday night with an intensive suspect tracing exercise that continued into the early hours of Saturday, resulting in 275 arrests. Among those arrested were 2 suspects wanted for murder, 2 for attempted murder, 3 for armed robbery, and 4 for rape. An additional 88 suspects were arrested for offences related to gender based violence.
High-visibility policing followed through roadblocks, inspections, and patrols aimed at improving community safety and enforcing legislation. During these activities, police searched 427 people, searched 225 vehicles, and verified 68 vehicles to confirm that they were not stolen.
A total of 31 undocumented immigrants were arrested and handed over to immigration officials for further processing.
Police inspected 7 liquor outlets, with 3 outlets closed and fined for Liquor Act violations. A total of 195000 ml of liquor was confiscated.
Traffic authorities issued 108 AARTO infringement notices with a combined value of R74600 for various Road Traffic Act offences.
Targeted patrols conducted in 36 identified hotspot areas uncovered ongoing drug related activities. Police arrested 3 suspects for possession and dealing in drugs after seizing 11 ziplock bags containing various substances.
Major General Thine thanked all participating departments and stakeholders for their continued commitment to building safer communities across Tshwane.
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