Over 700 suspects have been arrested for various crimes across the province of Limpopo, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said.
“Between Monday, 12 October and Sunday, 19 October 2025, law enforcement teams across all five districts conducted simultaneous high-density operations that led to the arrest of 739 suspects and the recovery of seven firearms,” the SAPS said in a statement on Monday.
Eight individuals were arrested for murder, while six others were arrested for attempted murder. Seventy-three others were arrested for assault grievous bodily harm (GBH) while 47 others were nabbed for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs among others.
The crime fighting efforts were made through Operation Shanela and follow on the recent launch of the Safer Festive Season Operations in the province.
The operations, aimed at enhancing public safety ahead of the festive season, involved roadblocks, stop-and-searches, vehicle checkpoints, compliance inspections at liquor outlets, tracing of wanted suspects, and monitoring of illegal activities such as drug dealing, illicit mining and the contravention of the Immigration Act.
During the police operations, 7031 vehicles were stopped and searched, and 1097 liquor premises were inspected among others. In addition, police confiscated 21 dangerous weapons, 43 rounds of ammunition and 185.75 grams of crystal meth as well as 5,62 kg of dagga.
Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, applauded the positive outcomes and reaffirmed that Operation Shanela remains a key driver in ensuring a safe and secure festive period. – SAnews.gov.za
