The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster’s Crime Prevention Outreach in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, has resulted in the arrest of more than 100 suspects.
The programme, led by JCPS Ministers, included community engagements, school visits, raids on liquor outlets, stop-and-search operations, roadblocks, and parolee compliance inspections.
On Friday, various government departments, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, the Department of Home Affairs, and municipal traffic services, carried out joint operations. These efforts led to:
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56 wanted suspects arrested for serious crimes, including rape, murder, attempted murder, and armed robbery.
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45 suspects arrested for other offences.
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642 vehicles searched.
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687 individuals searched.
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75 undocumented foreign nationals arrested.
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Traffic fines amounting to R35 700 issued.
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Eight dangerous weapons seized.
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One firearm recovered.
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23 suspects arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and two for selling liquor without a licence.
The operations formed part of Operation Shanela II, under which Eastern Cape police have, since 1 April 2025, confiscated 756 illegal firearms and more than 8 000 rounds of ammunition. Of these, 181 firearms and 1 804 rounds of ammunition were seized within the OR Tambo District Municipality.
Deputy National Commissioner of Police, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, said Operation Shanela II continues to make progress in tackling crime.
“These ongoing operations, which focus on high-visibility policing, stop-and-searches and the tracing of wanted suspects, have resulted in thousands of arrests and the recovery of firearms, drugs, and stolen property across the country,” said General Mosikili. - SAnews.gov.za
