Festive Season Operation Lungisa Delivers Strong Results in Soweto West

On Tuesday evening, Jabulani SAPS led a high-impact festive season operation in Soweto West, aimed at curbing crime and ensuring community safety as New Year’s Eve approaches. Under the leadership of Brigadier Lefa Tsotetsi as Overall Commander and Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Balram as Operational Commander, the initiative showcased a united front of law enforcement and community partners.

The deployment included two SAPS officers, twelve members, and five vehicles, supported by four JMPD Bylaws officers with two vehicles. Crime Prevention Wardens contributed eighteen members, while Bhekani Abantu Security added three personnel. Community involvement was evident through the presence of CPF and Community in Blue patrollers.

The operation yielded significant successes. Seven arrests were made for drunk driving, reinforcing the commitment to road safety during the festive period. Two individuals were apprehended for drug possession, and a hijacked Suzuki Swift was recovered, marking a major breakthrough in vehicle crime prevention. Additionally, four arrests were recorded for illegal immigration.

Detectives handled multiple assault-related cases, including common assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and interference with police duties. Property-related offences were also addressed, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to law enforcement.

Proactive measures included 24 vehicle searches and 78 person searches, alongside patrols at Jabulani Mall and Jabulani Hostel. Carjacking hotspots were monitored to deter opportunistic crimes.

Operation Lungisa reflects the dedication of SAPS and its partners to safeguarding communities during high-risk periods. Through collaboration and decisive action, the team delivered tangible results, reinforcing public confidence in local policing efforts.

JMPD Arrests Viral Phone Snatcher and Dismantles Stolen Property Syndicate in Hillbrow

 A 26-year-old man captured on video snatching a cellphone from a woman at a Pretoria shopping centre has been tracked down and arrested in Hillbrow by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s Tactical Response Unit. The arrest follows a viral social media video that drew widespread attention to the suspect’s criminal activities.

The MMC for Public Safety, Councillor Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, emphasised that lawlessness will not be tolerated in the city and reiterated that decisive action will continue against criminal elements.

On Tuesday, 30 December 2025, officers acting on information regarding the suspect located him in a flat in Hillbrow. During a thorough search of the premises, he was found hiding on the balcony in possession of a cellphone he could not account for. Preliminary investigations linked him to multiple phone snatching incidents across Gauteng, the March 2025 hijacking of an off-duty JMPD member, and the use of a Toyota Corolla with cloned registration plates during the commission of these crimes.

Further inquiries led officers to the suspect’s associates, resulting in the arrest of three Bangladeshi nationals in Johannesburg Central. These individuals are alleged to have been involved in reprogramming or wiping stolen cellphones, commonly referred to as flushing. Officers recovered specialised equipment used for this activity during the arrests.

The primary suspect, a Zimbabwean national, was detained at Hillbrow SAPS on charges of possession of suspected stolen property, while the three Bangladeshi suspects were charged similarly and detained at Johannesburg Central SAPS. All four are expected to appear in court soon.

JMPD Chief of Police, Commissioner Patrick Jaca, praised the Tactical Response Unit for its swift action, describing the arrests as a significant breakthrough in the fight against syndicates that terrorise residents. He stated that linking the suspect to both the viral video and the hijacking of one of the department’s own members sends a clear message that there is no hiding place for criminals in Johannesburg. Commissioner Jaca also confirmed that further arrests of those involved in the stolen property network are expected.

Superintendent Xolani Fihla, spokesperson for the JMPD, highlighted the proactive approach of the department, saying the operation demonstrates the commitment of the Tactical Response Unit to combating crime in the city. He encouraged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to assist ongoing investigations.

Investigations remain ongoing, with authorities pursuing additional leads connected to the syndicate. The JMPD reaffirmed its dedication to removing criminals from the streets and dismantling networks profiting from stolen property.

Operation Lungisa Strikes Hard: Jabulani SAPS Tightens Festive Season Security

On Sunday, 28 December 2025, the Johannesburg District, Soweto West, carried out a major festive season crime prevention initiative under the banner of Operation Lungisa. The operation ran from midday until midnight and was led by Jabulani SAPS, supported by multiple law enforcement units.

The operation was commanded by Brigadier Tsotetsi, with Sergeant Mamelasigidi overseeing on-the-ground activities. Jabulani SAPS deployed a team comprising one officer, five members, and three vehicles. Additional resources included one reservist, two Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department officers with a vehicle, and four members from the GTW unit with their own vehicle.

The operation achieved notable successes in combating crime. Arrests included an undocumented foreign national and two individuals involved in domestic violence-related assaults. A significant breakthrough occurred later in the evening when officers apprehended a suspect in Zola 3 for possession of an unlicensed firearm. The arrest followed intelligence received by Naledi SAPS regarding the suspect’s involvement in a house robbery. Acting swiftly, officers located the individual at Mathebula Street and recovered the firearm. The suspect was detained, and the weapon was processed in accordance with police procedures.

Stop-and-search operations were conducted extensively throughout the day. Officers searched 30 vehicles and 88 individuals, while high-visibility patrols were carried out at Jabulani Mall, Jabulani Hostel, and Inhlazane Railway Station. In addition, hotspot areas associated with carjacking were monitored to deter criminal activity and enhance public safety.

Operation Lungisa demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated policing during the festive season. Through proactive measures and intelligence-driven interventions, law enforcement successfully disrupted criminal activities and reinforced community security in Soweto West.

Ballistics Breakthrough Brings Police Closer to Justice in Atteridgeville Tragedy

Police have confirmed a major breakthrough in the investigation into the Atteridgeville mass shooting after forensic evidence linked a seized firearm to the deadly attack that claimed twelve lives and left thirteen people injured.

The South African Police Service announced on Tuesday that ballistic analysis has positively connected a firearm recovered during a recent arrest to the crime scene in Atteridgeville. The shooting, which shocked communities across Tshwane and the country, remains one of the most devastating incidents of gun violence recorded in the area.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has commended the multidisciplinary team leading the investigation for what he described as steady and focused progress. He praised the collaboration between Gauteng and Limpopo police units, which led to the arrest of one of three persons of interest last week in Polokwane.

During the arrest, officers recovered a firearm and several rounds of ammunition from the suspect. Subsequent forensic testing confirmed that the weapon was used in the Atteridgeville shooting, significantly strengthening the case against the accused.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Polokwane court on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. He will then appear on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, before the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court, where he faces twelve counts of murder and thirteen counts of attempted murder. Police have indicated that the suspect cannot be named at this stage as an identity parade is still to be concluded.

SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the latest development marks a critical step towards accountability. She said police are encouraged by the forensic results and remain confident that the investigation is moving in the right direction. According to Mathe, the use of science and intelligence led policing continues to play a central role in tackling violent crime and ensuring successful prosecutions.

She added that while one suspect is now in custody, the investigation is far from over. A manhunt is continuing for the remaining two suspects, who are believed to be on the run. Police have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward and work with law enforcement.

As the case returns to court, SAPS has reiterated its commitment to justice for the victims and their families, assuring the public that all available resources are being deployed to bring those responsible to account.

Three Dead in Doornkop Double-Storey Building Collapse

A tragic building collapse in Doornkop claimed three lives in the early hours of Sunday (28 December 2025) morning. Emergency Management Services (EMS) were dispatched at approximately 03:00 following reports that a double-storey structure had collapsed.

On arrival, EMS confirmed that six people had been inside the building when it gave way. Three individuals were trapped beneath the rubble, prompting an urgent rescue operation. All trapped patients were successfully extricated by emergency crews.

Medical teams provided immediate care at the scene. One patient sustained critical injuries and required life-saving intervention before being transported to hospital. Another suffered serious injuries and was rushed for urgent treatment, while a third patient sustained minor injuries, remained stable after assessment, and was taken for further evaluation.

Three patients were transported to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital: an adult female with serious injuries, an adult female with minor injuries, and a child with minor injuries. Tragically, three lives were lost in the incident—two adult females and one child.

City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services (COJEMS) spokesperson Xolile Khumalo expressed condolences to the affected families, stating:  “Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones in this devastating incident. While our teams worked tirelessly to save lives, the loss of three individuals is deeply saddening.”  

Khumalo confirmed that the scene has been handed over to the relevant authorities for a full investigation into the cause of the collapse.  

“We urge residents and builders to prioritise structural safety and compliance with building regulations to prevent such tragedies,” Khumalo added.

Police Launch Manhunt After Violent Cash-in-Transit Heist in Thokoza

Photo: SAPS Gauteng spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo.

Police in Gauteng have initiated a manhunt for suspects involved in a brazen cash-in-transit robbery that occurred in Thokoza at approximately 13:30 on Saturday, 27 December 2025.

According to reports, an armoured cash-in-transit vehicle was travelling through Thokoza when it was deliberately rammed by a white Mercedes-Benz, causing it to overturn. The attackers swiftly disarmed the security personnel before detonating explosives to access the vehicle’s contents. An undisclosed amount of cash was stolen during the incident, while other suspects opened fire on the escort vehicle.

The perpetrators fled the scene in four separate vehicles. Tragically, a 13-year-old girl was struck by a stray bullet during the exchange of gunfire and was rushed to hospital for medical treatment.

Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo, Gauteng Provincial Spokesperson, condemned the attack and assured the public that every resource is being deployed to apprehend those responsible.  

“We are leaving no stone unturned in tracking down these criminals. Our specialised units are on the ground, and we appeal to anyone with information to come forward. This reckless act endangered innocent lives, and we will ensure justice is served,” said Masondo.

Police urge members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or information that could assist in the investigation.

Tshwane Police Honour Newly Promoted Members at Official Parade

 

The South African Police Service in Tshwane celebrated the achievements of its members during an official parade held at the District Commissioner’s Office on Tuesday, 23 December 2025. The event marked a significant occasion for officers who were recently promoted as part of the Service’s post-promotion drive.

The parade was hosted by Major-General Samuel Thine, the District Commissioner of Tshwane, who extended his congratulations to the newly promoted members and acknowledged their dedication and commitment to policing excellence. A total of forty-three Sergeants and sixty-eight Warrant Officers received promotions during this process, reflecting the Service’s commitment to recognising hard work and leadership potential.

In his address, Major-General Thine encouraged the members to take pride in their achievement while reminding them that promotion brings greater responsibility and accountability. He emphasised that this milestone should not be seen as the end of a journey but rather the beginning of new opportunities and challenges within the organisation.

The District Commissioner highlighted the critical role of the junior management cadre in upholding discipline, integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. He stressed the importance of leading by example and reaffirmed that corruption and misconduct would not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Major-General Thine concluded by urging the promoted members to remain steadfast in their commitment to serving communities with honour and dedication. He noted that these officers represent the next generation of leaders within the South African Police Service and play a vital role in shaping its future.